DWI Defense Attorneys in Georgetown

What Is Considered Intoxication in Texas?

In Texas, you can be charged with DWI if you are operating a motor vehicle and it is determined that you are intoxicated while doing so. DWI is not only limited to alcohol intoxication but also includes other intoxicants such as drugs and controlled substances.

Challenging Field Sobriety Tests in Texas

If a police officer pulls you over, you could be required to take a field sobriety test. These tests are voluntary, but if you refuse to take them, the police officer could arrest you. 

There are three common field sobriety tests that police officers use, including:

• Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN). This test measures the involuntary jerking of your eye when following an object. An officer will hold a pen or small flashlight and follow your eye while you are looking at the object.
• The Walk and Turn (WAT). This test requires you to take nine steps, turn, and take nine steps back. An officer will look for eight clues to determine if you are intoxicated, such as if you take more than nine steps, sway, or if you use your arms for balance.
• The One Leg Stand (OLS). This test requires you to stand on one leg for 30 seconds. An officer will look for four clues to determine if you are intoxicated, such as if you sway or  if you hope while trying to maintain your balance.

If the officer feels you exhibited enough clues on these tests to say you are intoxicated, the officer can arrest you and take you to the police station for a chemical test. You could be charged with DWI even if you think you did well on the field sobriety tests.

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