A Guide to Holiday DUI Checkpoints in Texas

 Posted on December 07, 2019 in Bail Bonds

As 2019 draws to a close and people all across the DFW Metroplex prepare to celebrate the dawning of a new year, you can bet police will be on high alert for anyone driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Sometimes they set up roadblocks where drivers must submit to a sobriety test, and failure means a quick trip to jail. Is this legal? What should you do if you run into a DUI checkpoint this holiday season? Doc's Bail Bonds has the answers. We'll also bail you out 24/7 if you get hit with a drunk driving charge.

Are Sobriety Checkpoints Legal in Texas?

That's a gray area. While the Texas government has not specifically approved DUI checkpoints, they get treated like legal roadblocks for all intents and purposes. Opponents claim they violate a driver's right to protection from unreasonable search because everyone on the road gets pulled over and questioned, even if the officers had no probable cause to detain them. You are within your legal rights to refuse a field sobriety test or breathalyzer, but such a refusal can lead to criminal charges.

What About No-Refusal Checkpoints?

No-refusal checkpoints, as the name suggests, cannot be refused. If you find yourself at a no-refusal DUI checkpoint, you must submit to a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer, or officers have the authority to make you take a blood test – either on the spot or at the jail.

What Should I Do If I Get Stopped?

Handle it like you would a routine traffic stop. Roll down your window. Be courteous and cooperative. If the officer asks for your license and registration, announce that you're going to reach for them before you make a move to do so. Provide the requested documentation and sit tight until instructed to do otherwise. If you're driving while intoxicated, don't try to hide it or lie about it. The police will find out and won't give you any leniency if you're dishonest. Don't compound your problem by resisting arrest or being rude to the officers.

What's the Best Way to Avoid Police Roadblocks?

Don't drive drunk! There's no excuse for driving under the influence. It puts you and everyone on the road in danger. The best way to avoid sobriety checkpoints is to know your limits and travel with a designated driver. If you're partying solo, use Uber, Lyft, or a cab to get home safely. Checkpoints are most numerous on weekends and during holidays like New Year's Eve, so drive safely and use discretion.

What if I Get Arrested?

Being arrested is always a pain, especially when you're stuck in jail over the holidays awaiting your court date. If you or a loved one gets charged with drunk driving and tossed in jail, you can trust Doc's Bail Bonds to get you out. We've been in the bail bond industry for years. We won't judge you for making a bad decision; we'll just get you out of jail and reunited with your family as quickly as we possibly can.

Doc's Bail Bonds: We Help You Get Out of Jail Anytime You Need Us

From our offices in Dallas, Garland, Denton, Sherman, and Bonham, our licensed bail agents are never far when you need them. We are conveniently located near area courts and jails so you never have to spend more time than necessary in custody. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even on holidays. You can print out our forms online to get started on your quick path to freedom.