You should always get a safe ride home, but over the next few weeks. Law enforcement will be increasing their efforts to look for those driving under the influence.

Consistently, Wichita Falls makes the list for having some of the worst drivers in America. Now add alcohol into the mix and your awful driving somehow gets worse. The Texas Department of Transportation is letting folks know that Operation Safe Holidays is underway starting December 12th.

What is Operation Safe Holidays?

Over the next few weeks, drunk driving related accidents tend to go up. Maybe friends or family are in town for Christmas and you reunite for a couple of drinks? Of course one of the biggest bar nights of the year is coming up on New Year's Eve. TxDOT says they will have an increased police presence from December 12-January 1 on the roads.

DWI Penalties in Texas

• 1st DWI offense fine: $250 to $2,000
• Bail: up to $1,000
• Court costs: up to $500
• Attorney fees: varies, but average is up to $9,400
• Probation fees (12 months): up to $1,200
• Alcohol Education Course: $70 to $200
• Increased car insurance: about $1,000
• Car impound and towing fee: about $200
• Car storage fees (up to 5 days): $100
• Ignition interlock device (12 months): $1,400
• Restitution amounts: not included
• Grand total $17,000

New Drunk Driving Law in Effect in Texas

Texas House Bill 393 went into effect 2023. If you're found guilty of intoxication manslaughter in the state of Texas and that person you hit and killed has young children. You then have to pay child support since those children no longer have a parent.

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If you do go out to drink. Designate a driver, get a safe ride home (Taxi or Rideshare), or if you're at a friend's place. See if you can crash there for the night.