San Antonio, Austin, Houston and Dallas are among some of the busiest cities in Texas. Each of them regularly hosts events, such as concerts and sporting events where there’s significant drinking.
Drinking and driving is problematic. It can lead to serious collisions as well as arrests and penalties. That’s why cities should take steps to minimize driving under the influence (DUI) offenses or help people who struggle with alcoholism.
Did you know that Texas ranks as the state with the top DUI hotspots?
A recent compilation of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) data shows that Texas is home to four of the top five cities in the country for DUI arrests.
That same data shows that San Antonio sees, on average, 1,111 arrests for DUIs per 100,000 residents. Houston has 787 per 100,000, which resulted in it ranking fifth of all major metopolitan areas. El Paso also made it into the top five in terms of the largest U.S. metros for DUI arrests. Las Vegas ranked first.
What does this ranking mean for residents of Houston?
This data shows that Texas does take drinking and driving seriously, so if you do happen to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, there is a higher chance that you’ll be stopped than in some other cities.
Your best course of action for avoiding such charges is to not get into your vehicle if you’ve been drinking. There are alternative options, such as taking a rideshare service home or calling a taxi. If you can, plan to have a designated driver with you when you go out to a restaurant, bar or any event where you might drink.
A DUI arrest and conviction may carry with it harsh penalties if you don’t defend yourself. Remember, you have a right to defend yourself if you’re arrested for a DUI, and you should protect your rights.