LocalNewsOnly.com March 8, 2016
Parts of this article credit to Greg Glod, The Texas Tribune
If you follow the arrests reports that LNO news posts weekly, you will note the high percentage of DWI arrests. Besides the fact these drivers are not only risking their own safety, they threaten any other driver that might be unfortunate enough to come in contact with them, sometimes literally.
A program created in 2003, known as the “Driver Responsibility Program,” is unknown by most Texans. However, those who are arrested for DWI now know the consequences the arrest brings along with the event, other than the embarrassment of a mug shot available to the public.
There now exists a point system for each type of traffic offense. These points remain on your license for three years. If you hit six points, you must pay $100 for every year the points are on your record and an additional $25 for each additional point.
Higher-level traffic convictions carry steep penalties that must be paid for three years. A first-time DWI will cost an individual $3,000 over three years.
Failure, to pay these fines results in the suspension of the person’s license. Fines, your attorney’s fees, car repairs, elevated insurance rates and court costs can add to thousands of additional dollars in the blink of an eye.
A portion of the revenue from this program goes to fund trauma hospitals’ uncompensated care costs.
Despite these facts, since 2003, DUI-related driving crashes resulting in a fatalities have increased by 4.28%.
Perhaps one should print out these facts and next time you think about driving with a “buzz on,” realize it will be a lot cheaper, safer and responsible to get a designated driver or take a cab, because that ride in a police car is going to cost you immediately and for a lot longer!
