Kill a Parent in DWI Crash in Texas You Will Pay Child Support

Stay Safe This Holiday Season: A Warning About Texas' Tough DUI Laws

As the Christmas season approaches, we all look forward to the joy of gathering with family, exchanging gifts, and enjoying the festive spirit. However, it’s also a time to remember that the holidays can be one of the deadliest times on Texas roads. According to Mark Couch, Public Information Officer with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the three days leading up to Christmas Eve are statistically the most dangerous for deadly car crashes.

Why? Increased travel, last-minute shopping stress, and holiday celebrations that often include alcohol create a perfect storm. If you plan to celebrate, here’s a critical reminder: if you’re drinking alcohol, do not drive. And if you’re going to drive, do not drink.

Texas legislators have implemented some of the strictest driving-under-the-influence (DUI) laws in the nation. And for a good reason—these laws aim to save lives. The consequences of driving under the influence are severe and lasting, and they get even more heartbreaking during the holidays.

The Law That Hits Home

One Texas law stands out, especially during this time of family togetherness. If you’re involved in a DUI-related accident and an adult loses their life, you will not only face criminal charges but also be held financially responsible. And here’s the part that makes an impact: if the deceased has children, you’ll be required to pay child support until their youngest child graduates from college.

This law is a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of impaired driving. It’s designed to protect families and ensure that those left behind are not burdened further. Even if you’re incarcerated, your obligation to pay child support does not go away—it begins, continues, and follows you.

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A Sobering Thought

The holiday season should be about giving—not taking away lives and futures. If you’re planning to drink, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or plan to stay overnight where you’re celebrating. There’s no excuse for putting lives at risk.

Texas takes its DUI laws seriously, and so should you. This Christmas, let’s keep our roads safe and our celebrations joyful. No family should have to face the loss of a loved one during the holidays, especially from something preventable.

Here are a few more laws that have been implemented since last year, from the Texas Department of Transportation. These laws are in effect now.

1. Individuals convicted of intoxication manslaughter will now be required to provide child support in cases where they take the life of a parent with young children.
2. If you are driving impaired with children under 15, you will be charged with child endangerment and fined $10,000.
3. In addition to fines, there are also state fees of $3000, $4500, or $6000 assessed upon sentencing.
4. First offense: Up to a $2000 fine, up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days, and loss of driver’s license for up to a year.
5. Second offense: Up to a $4000 fine, one month to a year in jail upon conviction, and loss of driver’s license for up to two years.
6. Third offense: A $10,000 fine, two to ten years in prison, and loss of driver’s license up to two years.
7. Fines and fees can reach up to $17,000 and you could end up in jail, which could cost you your job, your paycheck, and your driver's license.

Again, remember to "designate before you celebrate." And don't forget to deck them halls y'all. #TexasLegalSystem #DriveSober