How to Prevent Small Traffic Violations from Turning into Charges of Driving While Intoxicated

In Texas, DUI enforcement is taken very seriously due to the high number of accidents and fatalities related to intoxicated driving. However, despite rigorous enforcement, only a fraction of actual DUI offenses are stopped and charged. To address this, Texas law enforcement officers are often vigilant in looking for any signs of potential DUI violations, leading them to make traffic stops for various reasons, even minor infractions, as a means to investigate further. Recently, a defendant in Texas challenged the legality of a traffic stop that led to his DUI conviction, arguing that the stop itself was improper.

In this particular case, the defendant was pulled over after activating his turn signal, but he did so too late, according to the officer. The officer had received information earlier about a small white vehicle leaving an event where the driver was allegedly intoxicated. When the officer spotted a car matching the description, he followed it. The vehicle was moving well below the speed limit and came to a stop at an intersection. At that point, the driver turned on his signal, but not within the required 100 feet before the intersection, as mandated by Texas law. The officer, seeing this as a traffic violation, initiated the stop. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer noticed the smell of alcohol and asked the driver if he had been drinking, to which the driver admitted he had.

The defendant appealed his DUI conviction, arguing that the stop was unwarranted because the traffic violation was minor and there was insufficient evidence to justify the stop. However, the court rejected both his appeal and his motion to suppress the evidence. Texas law requires that drivers intending to turn must activate their signal within at least 100 feet before making the turn. Because the officer observed that the driver violated this traffic law, the court found the stop lawful. As a result, the DUI conviction stands.

The significance of this case lies not so much in the law regarding turn signals but in the broader implications for drivers in Texas. This case highlights how law enforcement will often use minor traffic violations as a reason to initiate stops, providing an opportunity to investigate further for signs of DUI or other offenses. Many drivers may be unaware of certain traffic laws, like the requirement to signal 100 feet before an intersection. Even minor violations like this can give officers a legitimate reason to pull a driver over and potentially discover more serious issues, such as intoxication. Because of this, it’s crucial for drivers to be diligent in following the law, although there are times when getting stopped is inevitable, no matter how carefully you drive.

If you find yourself stopped and charged with a DUI in Texas, it’s essential to have a comprehensive legal strategy to address the charges. A qualified Texas criminal defense attorney can evaluate the details of your case and challenge the evidence in several ways. For example, they may scrutinize whether the initial stop was valid, whether the officer had reasonable suspicion, and whether the chemical tests for intoxication were administered correctly. Even in cases where there seems to be strong evidence, a skilled attorney can negotiate for reduced charges or, in some situations, achieve a complete dismissal of the case.

Hiring a knowledgeable attorney is critical when facing a DUI charge in Texas. Navigating the legal system on your own can lead to severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and a lasting criminal record. A qualified attorney understands the intricacies of DUI law in Texas and knows how to leverage every possible defense to secure the best outcome. It’s not worth cutting corners or choosing subpar legal representation when your future is on the line.

Get Started on Your Defense Today

If you’ve been arrested and charged with a DUI or any other crime in Texas, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Guest and Gray. Our dedicated team of Texas criminal defense lawyers understand what it takes to fight these charges and often helps clients avoid the harshest penalties, including dismissal and complete vindication. We know the Texas legal system and will use every tool at our disposal to defend your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation at 972-564-4644 and take the first step toward securing your future.