DUI and DWI arrests are not rare in the U.S., but they aren’t something that can happen in every state. Some states find the entire process to be unconstitutional. You might want to know whether you are safe from these DWI checkpoints in Texas, and if the two terms are used interchangebly.
What Is a DUI Checkpoint?
DUI stands for driving under the influence. The precise definition differs from state to state, but it usually refers to driving under the influence of alcohol. However, it may also include the influence of other drugs as well.
These drugs can be illegal drugs, but also prescription and over-the-counter stuff that may affect your motoric abilities. DUI checkpoints serve to reduce the number of people driving under the influence. If you drive past one of these checkpoints, the police officer might motion you to pull over, and they will test whether you are drunk driving.
Checkpoints are quite common in the United States. And they might be even more common during holidays like New Year’s Eve or any day that people might decide to party a bit more. Usually, these checkpoints are not designed to be a trap for drivers, and law enforcement will announce if they are doing these types of tests.
What Is a DWI Checkpoint?
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated or driving while impaired. Now, the difference between a DWI and a DUI can be nonexistent. The law is different from each state, and some may use one term or the other. Other states will use both. In the majority of cases, if the state uses both DWI and DUI, one will refer to alcohol while the other term is for drugs.
DWI is mostly associated with alcohol and driving with BAC or blood alcohol content that exceeds a certain limit. The best course of action would be to inform yourself about the laws in the state you’re in and the names associated with each misdemeanor. Currently, 38 states in the U.S. allow these types of sobriety checkpoints, while 12 do not.
Are They Legal in Texas?
In Texas, a DWI and a DUI are used interchangeably, and these checkpoints are not legal. The state argues that these checkpoints violate the fourth amendment. Since the person is not charged with anything, one could say that a field sobriety test is conducted for no reason. If you get arrested in Texas and charged with DWI, you will need to contact the DWI defense law office as soon as possible. These types of searches are unconstitutional, and you should avoid any type of problem.
ABC Bail Bonds Can Help
You might need a bit of help before the process is over. Luckily, ABC Bail Bonds offers affordable bail bonds to get you out of the tough spot. We can help you post bail and leave this unpleasant situation quickly. If you have any questions about our methods, pricing, or anything else, feel free to contact us.
