Houston Holiday DWI Crackdowns: What to Expect & How to Stay Safe

The holidays in Houston bring festive lights, family gatherings—and unfortunately, a spike in DWI arrests and crashes. Harris County consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for impaired driving fatalities, and local law enforcement responds with aggressive enforcement, including “No-Refusal” weekends. Here’s what you need to know before you head out.

What Are Holiday DWI Crackdowns?

During major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, Memorial Day, and Labor Day, Houston-area agencies launch “No-Refusal” initiatives. This means:

  • Judges and prosecutors are on standby so officers can quickly obtain warrants for blood draws if you refuse testing.
  • Extra patrols and checkpoints target high-traffic nightlife corridors like Washington Ave, Midtown, and the Galleria.
  • Multi-agency task forces (HPD, HCSO, DPS) work together to keep impaired drivers off the road.

Recent announcements:

Why It Matters: Local Stats

  • Harris County reported over 3,000 alcohol-related crashes and 140 fatalities last year.
  • During one recent Labor Day weekend, 100 DWI arrests were made in a single night.
  • Statewide, TxDOT reports 1,000+ deaths annually from impaired driving.

(Source: KHOU, ABC13, TxDOT)

Safety Planning: How to Avoid a DWI Arrest

If you plan to celebrate, make a plan before you pour:

  • Use rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) and verify driver details for safety (FOX26 rideshare tips).
  • Book a nearby hotel if you’re going to bars or events.
  • Designate a sober driver or use public transit (METRO Safety).
  • Stay put until sober—don’t risk your life or license.

TxDOT’s campaign says it best: Drive Sober. No Regrets.

ALR Reminder: Your License Is at Risk

If you’re arrested for DWI in Texas:

  • You have 15 days from notice to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing.
  • Miss the deadline? Your license is automatically suspended around day 40.
  • Learn more: Texas DPS ALR Program
  • Our guide: ALR Hearing Explained

What To Do If You’re Stopped

  1. Stay calm and polite. Provide ID and insurance.
  2. Decline field sobriety questions. Request a lawyer.
  3. Document everything: times, officer statements, location.
  4. Call us immediately—we fight ALR suspensions and challenge warrants.

📞 713-521-9955 | 📍 Map to Office
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Quick FAQ

Q: Does “No-Refusal” mean mandatory testing?
A: No. It means faster warrants for blood draws.

Q: How long do I have to request an ALR hearing?
A: 15 days from notice.

Q: What holidays trigger No-Refusal?
A: Christmas, New Year’s, Memorial Day, Labor Day.