Austin police report that their ‘No Refusal’ DWI enforcement program is helping them obtain better evidence and make stronger cases against drunk and drugged drivers. Despite that apparent success, there are no numerical data available to tell us whether fewer people are driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and whether there has been a decrease in the amount of fatal drug or alcohol-related crashes as the result of the no-refusal program.
You might not be aware that the overall number of DWI arrests in Austin has not increased since the no-refusal program got implemented. The Austin Police Department arrest between five and a half thousand and six thousand drivers each year on suspicion of DWI and the number remains consistent even as the no-refusal program continues to expand into time periods that do not happen near holidays.
Whether the no-refusal program is effective in preventing impaired driving or not, it is still something that drivers should be aware of. In previous years, Halloween has been a time when police in Austin and elsewhere in the state have conducted no-refusal periods. Although Halloween falls on a Tuesday this year, there are always plenty of parties during the weekend before the holiday. Law enforcement officials know that this is sure to be a fun-filled weekend for both children and adults, and in selected areas, they may even be conducting a no-refusal period during that time.
Whether or not your plans for Halloween take you to an area where no-refusal will be in effect, be aware that law enforcement officers will be working to keep drunk and drugged drivers off the streets by increasing their patrols. A bigger law enforcement presence on the streets means that you are at a higher risk of being pulled over than you usually are.
If your plans this weekend take you to an area where no-refusal is in effect, know that law enforcement officers will arrest any driver who refuses to submit to roadside blood or breath testing. After the arrest, a blood sample will be taken from them while they are in police custody.
Texas DWI Defense Attorney Alex Tyra – A Powerful Ally Against Texas DWI Charges
If you get stopped by the police, you might be able to prevent your traffic stop from turning into a DWI investigation. Remain calm, speak respectfully, and give the police officer only as much information as the law requires. If you do get arrested, protect yourself by using your right to remain silent. Ask to speak with an attorney right away. An experienced Texas DWI defense attorney can build a strong case on your behalf, especially if you retain them immediately. If you get charged with DWI because you are suspected of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, contact an experienced Texas DWI Defense Attorney today. If you have any questions about DWI in Texas, call Texas DWI Defense Attorney Alex Tyra, at (903) 753-7499, or contact us on our website through our online contact form.