Texas law defines impairment as lacking the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, or a combination of two or more of those substances into the body. For example, an individual who struggles to maintain balance while walking or exhibits slurred speech after consuming alcohol may be considered impaired under this definition.
This specific definition is crucial because it provides a tangible and observable standard for law enforcement and the courts. Its application safeguards public safety by establishing clear parameters for determining when an individual’s abilities are compromised to a degree that poses a risk to themselves or others. Historically, such concrete definitions have been essential in ensuring consistent and fair application of the law in cases involving substance-related offenses.
