Vehicular Crimes
Vehicular crimes can range from reckless driving to driving under the influence. These crimes are harshly sentenced in the state of Texas and can result in you being a convicted felon. Criminal penalties can include steep fines and/or lengthy prison sentences
Being arrested for a vehicular crime can be a frightening experience. Law enforcement will make you feel like a criminal and as if you have no one to turn to for legal representation. However, that is not the case. During this difficult time, it is best you secure the skilled counsel of a vehicular crimes attorney. Contact The Benken Law Firm to discuss all of your legal options.
Harris County Vehicular Crimes Attorney, TX
If you were recently arrested for a vehicular crime in Harris County, you probably have many questions that criminal defense attorney Brian Benken at The Benken Law Firm can answer. He has proven experience in defending vehicular crimes and will do everything in his power to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. Do not lose any more time and contact him today.
Call (713) 223 - 4051 to schedule a free case consultation with The Benken Law Firm. Brian Benken represents clients in every community in Harris County and surrounding counties. Some of these communities include Midtown, Downtown Houston, Woodland Heights, Southside Place and Braeswood Place.
Information Center
- Criminal Vehicular Crimes in Texas
- Why Would My License be Suspended?
- Vehicular Manslaughter in Texas
- Additional Resources for Vehicular Crimes in Harris County, TX
Criminal Vehicular Crimes in Texas
Criminal vehicular crimes can be severe. They require you to appear in court and can carry penalties that include fines, time behind bars and court cost. These crimes are either classified as a felony or misdemeanor. Examples of criminal vehicular crimes include:
- Reckless Driving: This is considered operating a vehicle in a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people and property. Speeding, racing, failing to use a turn signal and passing a stopped school bus are all considered reckless driving. The crime is a hybrid offense, but you could face a fine up to $200, 30 days in county jail or both.
- Racing: Any form of racing is illegal in Texas. This can include drag racing, testing the physical endurance of a vehicle and vehicle speed competitions. The penalties for racing can range from a class B misdemeanor to a second-degree felony.
- Driving with a Suspended License: Every Texas driver is required to have a valid driver’s license. If you are caught driving with a suspended license, you could spend up to a year in jail and be required to pay up to $4,000 in fines.
- Driving while Intoxicated: This is one of the most common criminal vehicular violations. If you are caught operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 or higher, it’s considered driving while intoxicated. You could spend anywhere from 72 hours in jail to 20 years in prison and pay up to $10,000 in fines.
- Evading Arrest: It’s against the law to intentionally flee from a police officer or federal investigator who is attempting to make a lawful arrest. Charges can range from a state jail felony to a second-degree felony.
- Failure to Stop and Render Aid: When you are involved in an accident you are required by law to stop and provide reasonable assistance to those injured in the accident. If convicted you could spend anywhere from 180 days jail to 20 years in prison.
Why Would My License be Suspended in Texas?
Certain crimes in Texas can be punished with a suspended license. Most of these crimes are vehicle-related offense. There are other reasons your license could be suspended though. Some of the most common reasons your license could be suspended in Texas include:
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- Being convicted of vehicular homicide
- A conviction of a DWI offense
- Being convicted of evading arrest
- Failing to appear in court
- Failing to pay fines
- Certain medical conditions or disabilities
- Too many points on your driving record
- Possessing a fake driver’s license
- Lack of valid insurance
- Court-ordered suspension
Vehicular Manslaughter in Texas
Under Texas Penal Code 19.04, a person who recklessly causes the death of another can be charged with manslaughter. Per state law, this offense is classified as a second degree felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines. Vehicular manslaughter occurs when an individual recklessly operates a vehicle and takes the life of someone else. He or she can be charged with manslaughter if they race on the highway, drive under the influence, or operate a boat under the influence.
Although vehicular manslaughter is a serious charge, it is one you do not have to face alone. If you have been arrested for vehicular manslaughter, do not lose any more time and contact The Benken Law Firm immediately. Criminal defense attorney Brian Benken can be your best resource.
Additional Resources for Vehicular Crimes in Harris County, TX
Operation and Movement of Vehicles | Texas Transportation Code – Follow this link to read the precise legal text of vehicular crimes like reckless driving and racing. You can also learn more about how the crimes are penalized and read up on other offenses such as riding in open beds and evading arrest. The statute can be read on the Texas Constitution and Statutes website.
Intoxication and Alcoholic Beverage Offenses | Texas Penal Code– Learn more about alcohol-related vehicular crimes. Chapter 49 of the penal code includes offenses such as driving while intoxicated and intoxication manslaughter. The code can be read on the Texas Constitution and Statutes website.
Vehicular Crimes Lawyer, Houston, TX
Were you recently arrested for a vehicular crime in Harris County? Take the first step in building your defense and contact The Benken Law Firm. Brian Benken is a trusted defense attorney with over 30 years of experience in Texas courts.As a licensed private investigator, Brian Benken will analyze crucial facts that might help win your case or get it dismissed.
The Benken Law Firm defends clients of vehicular crimes in every community across Harris County and surrounding counties such as Montrose, West University Place, The Heights, Uptown, Bellaire and many more. Schedule a free case consultation with The Benken Law Firm today by calling (713) 223 - 4051.
