What is the difference between a DUI and a wet reckless charge?

In Texas, the difference between a DUI and a wet reckless charge is substantial. A DUI, or driving under the influence, is a criminal offense where a person has been caught operating a vehicle while having a blood alcohol level of over .08. This offense carries with it a variety of consequences, including fines, jail time, and the suspension of a driver’s license. A wet reckless, meanwhile, is a reckless driving charge which occurs when an individual is caught operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. This charge is typically offered as a plea bargain to a DUI charge in instances where a driver’s BAC is close to the legal limit of .08 or if there is some doubt that the driver was actually under the influence of alcohol at the time of the offense. The exact penalties a person faces for a wet reckless charge depend on the state, but generally include counseling and fines. The primary benefit of a wet reckless charge is that it is not categorized as a DUI, which means a defendant will not incur the long-term implications of a DUI such as a license suspension. However, if a person is found guilty of a wet reckless charge, they can still receive a DUI if they are pulled over again within a certain period of time.

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What is the difference between a DUI and a wet reckless charge?

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