The True Cost of a DWI in Texas: Complete Financial Breakdown (2026)
The True Cost of a DWI in Texas: More Than You Think
If you’ve been arrested for DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in Texas, you’re facing one of the most expensive mistakes of your life. While most people know about court fines, the real cost of a DWI conviction goes far beyond the initial ticket.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the total cost of a first-time DWI in Texas typically exceeds $17,000. For repeat offenders, that number can climb to $25,000 or more. These costs include:
- Court fines and fees
- Attorney fees
- License reinstatement
- Increased insurance premiums
- Mandatory education programs
- Ignition interlock devices
- Lost wages
- Probation costs
- And dozens of hidden expenses
This comprehensive guide by Houston drunk driving accident attorney Greg Baumgartner breaks down every expense you’ll face after a DWI arrest in Texas, including costs that many people don’t discover until it’s too late.
Important Note: If you caused a car accident while driving drunk, you also face civil liability. Victims of drunk driving accidents can sue you for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
Houston drunk driving accident victims should contact an experienced Houston drunk driving accident attorney to understand their legal rights and maximum compensation options.
Drunk driving settlements can be huge, given Texas juries’ dislike of drunk drivers.
How Many Drinks Does it Take?
Other Factors in Blood Alcohol Levels
Food Consumed
Body Weight
Medication
What’s the Illegal Amount / BAC Level?
How BAC Level Affects Driving
Poor Muscle Coordination
Impaired Judgement
Speed Control
Reduced Info Processing
When You Get Pulled Over Standardised Field Sobriety Test (SFST)
Horizontal Gaze (HGN)
Walk & Turn (HGN)
Medication
When You Fail The Test
Arrest
Criminal Prosecution
Prison Time
Need an Attorney for Your Personal Injury?
Financial Costs
- $17,000 in costs including vehicle towing, bail bonds, attorney fees & court costs
- $17,000 doesn’t include lost income, counseling charges, or alternate transportation
- $19,200 is the average total cost
- Up to $24,000 is the average total cost
How can a DWI accident attorney help?
- Loss Of Licence
- Loss Of Job
- Family Struggle
- Permanent Record
- Public Humiliation
- School Denial
For a FREE Consultation Contact Us Today
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Our Experienced Houston Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help!
Legal Services
If you were injured by a drunk driver, contact our Houston personal injury attorneys
Talk with a top-rated personal injury lawyer by calling (281) 587-1111.
OR
Fill out an online consultation request for a FREE consultation.
About Our Law Firm in Houston
Houston personal injury lawyer Greg Baumgartner heads the Baumgartner Law Firm.
Our firm was established in 1985 and has helped thousands of injury victims get maximum compensation for their cases. If you have been injured in an accident in Houston, TX, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. (281) 587-1111.
Since 1985, Baumgartner Law Firm has limited our law practice to serious personal injury cases. Our legal team has won maximum compensation for thousands of accident victims and recovered millions of dollars for real people like you.
Helping these areas around Houston
Service Areas:
Tomball, Spring, Cypress, The Woodlands, and Conroe.
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