In a car crash or other incident involving multiple vehicles the police may investigate whether the driver of any of the vehicles is under the influence of or intoxicated by alcohol or drugs, and are not limited to investigating and arresting only the driver who was at fault in the accident, for example.
In Texas, when a car crash or other incident involving multiple vehicles occurs, law enforcement officers have the authority to investigate all drivers involved for potential intoxication. Texas law does not restrict officers to only investigate or arrest the driver who is deemed at fault for the accident. Under the Texas Penal Code, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a criminal offense, and it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle in a public place while intoxicated by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. If an officer has reasonable suspicion or probable cause to believe a driver is intoxicated, they can conduct field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests, or blood tests to determine the driver's level of intoxication. An arrest for DWI can be made regardless of the driver's role or fault in the accident. This approach is part of the state's efforts to enforce DWI laws and ensure public safety on the roads.
