Obstructing a highway or passageway or passageway may seem like a nonviolent crime, but a conviction for a misdemeanor in Texas may lead to time spent behind bars and steep fines. Unfortunately, it’s common for offenders to underestimate their charges until they enter the courtroom.
If you have been arrested for obstructing a highway or passageway, it is imperative that you do not tackle these accusations alone.
Texas Obstruction of Highway or Passageway Attorney
If you or someone you know has been arrested for obstruction of a highway or passageway in Williamson County, the Law Office of Price & Twine, PLLC, has the knowledge and resources necessary to provide you with a strong defense.
We are committed to fighting for your freedom. Do not wait any longer. Call 512-354-1880 to arrange a consultation today.
Information Center
- Obstruction of Highway or Passageway Under Texas Law
- Penalties for Obstruction of Highway or Passageway in Texas
- Additional Resources
Obstruction of Highway or Passageway Under Texas Law
Section 42.03 of the Texas Penal Code outlines the Obstructing Highway or Other Passageway crime. According to this statute, an individual commits this offense if, without legal privilege or authority, he intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly:
- Obstructs a highway, street, sidewalk, railway, waterway, elevator, aisle, hallway, entrance, or exit to which the public or a substantial group of the public has access, or any other place used for the passage of persons, vehicles, or conveyances, regardless of the means of creating the obstruction and whether the obstruction arises from his acts alone or from his acts and the acts of others; or
- Disobeys a reasonable request or order to move issued by a police officer, a fireman, or a person with authority to control the use of the premises:
(A) To prevent obstruction of a highway in a specific area; or
(B) To maintain public safety by dispersing those gathered in dangerous proximity to a fire, riot, or other hazard.
Penalties for Obstruction of Highway or Passageway in Texas
Obstructing a highway or passageway is a class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and up to $4,000 in fines. The offense may be enhanced to a state jail felony if in committing the offense, the alleged offender knowingly:
- Prevents the passage of an authorized emergency vehicle, as defined by Section 541.201, Transportation Code, that is operating the vehicle’s emergency audible or visual signals required by Section 546.003, Transportation Code; or
- Obstructs access to a hospital licensed under Chapter 241, Health and Safety Code, or other health care facility that provides emergency medical care.
A state jail felony is punishable by up to 2 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. The offense may also be escalated to a class B misdemeanor if the offender was operating a motor vehicle while engaging in a reckless driving exhibition and was:
- Previously convicted of another crime,
- At the time of the offense, the person was operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated,
- A person suffered bodily injury as a result of the offense.
Additional Resources
Texas Statutes: Obstruction of Highway or Passageway – Visit the official website for the Texas Penal Code to view information about obstructing a highway or passageway. Access the site to learn the elements of the crime, penalties, and other important information.
Driving While Intoxicated | TXDOT – Access the official website for the TXDOT to learn more about the laws for driving under the influence in Texas. You can view penalties for the crime and learn when the State of Texas considers a person to be “legally intoxicated.”
Georgetown Obstruction of Highway or Passageway Lawyer | Williamson County, TX
If you or someone you know has been accused of obstructing a Texas highway or passageway, , it is vital that you contact a skilled and reputable defense attorney. Williamson County criminal defense lawyers Michael Price and James Twine are the team you need to achieve the best possible outcomes for your case.
The Law Office of Price & Twine, PLLC, serves clients throughout central Texas including Austin, Cedar Park, Jarrell, Georgetown, Leander, Hutto, Liberty Hill, Round Rock, Taylor, and Granger. Call 512-354-1880 today to schedule a free consultation.