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Labor Day Weekend in Central Texas: Open Container & DWI Laws You Can’t Ignore Don’t Let a Labor Day Weekend DWI Ruin Your Futur

Labor Day Weekend in Central Texas: Open Container & DWI Laws You Can’t Ignore

Don’t Let a Labor Day Weekend DWI Ruin Your Future

Labor Day weekend is here, and across Central Texas, law enforcement will be out in full force. Police and state troopers step up patrols and DWI enforcement during holiday weekends, looking closely for impaired drivers, open containers, and unsafe driving.

Veronica Chidester, partner at Winters & Chidester, warns drivers to be especially cautious:

“Driving while intoxicated with a child in the car is a felony in Texas. Even something as simple as having an open container within reach can quickly turn into a serious legal problem.”

What You Should Know This Weekend

  • Open Container Law: Any open container of alcohol in the passenger area is illegal — even if the bottle is re-corked. Keep it in the trunk or locked glove box.
     

  • DWI with a Child Passenger: If you’re arrested for DWI with a child under 15 in the vehicle, you’re facing a state jail felony, with up to 2 years in jail and $10,000 in fines.
     

  • Increased Patrols: Expect more stops, checkpoints, and stricter enforcement through the holiday weekend.
     

Protect Yourself and Your Family

  • Put all alcohol in the trunk or locked storage.
     

  • Plan ahead with a designated driver — don’t wait until the last minute.
     

  • Be extra careful if you’re driving with kids. Even the appearance of alcohol in reach can make your situation worse.
     

Charged with a DWI This Weekend? Call Winters & Chidester

Mistakes happen. If you or someone you love is arrested for DWI, open container, or felony DWI with a child passenger, call Winters & Chidester right away. Our attorneys know how holiday enforcement works, and we fight hard to protect your record, your license, and your future.

If you’ve been arrested this weekend, we can also help guide you through the bond and jail release process so you or your loved one can get out quickly and start building a defense.

Don’t Wait: Your License Could Be at Risk

In Texas, a DWI arrest also triggers a driver’s license suspension unless you request an ALR (Administrative License Revocation) hearing within 15 days. This deadline comes fast — the sooner you reach out, the better your chances of keeping your license.

Available 24/7 | Call Winters & Chidester Today for Immediate Help