New laws went into effect: here’s how they affect you.
Key Takeaway:
On September 1, 2025, 835 new Texas laws went into effect. Most won’t affect your daily commute—but six do. From rental car refunds to tougher DWI penalties, here’s what Texas drivers and families need to know.
Police can now execute warrants for blood draws across county lines.
Key Takeaway:
Senate Bill 1886 allows peace officers to execute blood draw warrants across county lines in DWI and intoxication-related cases. The goal is to reduce delays and strengthen evidence collection.
The penalties for DWIs in Texas school zones increased on September 1, 2025.
Key Takeaway:
Under Senate Bill 826, a DWI in a school crossing zone is now a state jail felony if it occurs during reduced-speed hours. Before, most first-time DWIs were misdemeanors. The law raises the stakes significantly when children’s safety is at risk.
New law requires Texas school buses to add seatbelts by 2029.
Key Takeaway:
Yes. Under Senate Bill 546, every Texas school bus must be equipped with a three-point seat belt for every passenger and the driver by September 1, 2029. The law phases in gradually, giving school districts time to plan and report their progress.
The right car seat can save your child’s life in an accident.
Car seats are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect children during a car ride. But using the wrong type of seat—or installing it incorrectly—can make the difference between safety and serious injury in a crash.
Knowing when to stop for a school bus is essential to keep kids safe and avoid penalties.
Key Takeaway:
In Texas, drivers must stop when a school bus has flashing red lights and its stop arm extended—or face steep fines, license suspension, and even possible jail time.
Parents may have legal options if negligence caused their child’s sports injury.
As students head back to class, athletes are also returning to fields, courts, and gyms. Sports naturally come with risk — bumps, bruises, and the occasional sprain are all part of the game. But when injuries go beyond what’s expected, parents often ask: when is it just part of the sport, and when does negligence make schools or coaches legally responsible?
School zone accidents can be complicated.
Key Takeaway:
You can seek compensation for injuries in a Texas school zone accident—even if a public school bus or employee was involved—because certain cases waive government immunity under the Texas Tort Claims Act.
Car accidents increase over holiday weekends.
Key Takeaway:
After a Labor Day car accident, report the crash, document the scene, seek medical attention, and consult a personal injury lawyer to protect your health and legal rights.
Labor Day is September 1, 2025.
It’s another long weekend to take a break from school and work! Labor Day weekend also marks the unofficial end of summer — a chance for Texans to enjoy the warm breeze and sunny skies before fall arrives.
Texas Injury Lawyers Blog