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Law enforcement increases patrols across Texas to stop drunk drivers
AUSTIN — Whether it’s coming home from the pool or a BBQ, summer fun can end quickly with just one bad decision. Every 23 minutes there’s a crash in Texas involving a driver under the influence of alcohol. That’s more than 60 crashes a day in our state and adds up to a lifetime of pain for families who lost loved ones.
As the Labor Day holiday approaches, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is asking Texans not to drink and drive and to always choose a sober ride. Law enforcement will be watching for Texas drivers who make the wrong choice and drive drunk instead of calling a ride, taking public transit, or designating a sober driver. Texans know that it’s never just about following the law — it’s about saving lives.
“As Texans, we care about our neighbors and families, and that doesn’t stop when we get behind the wheel,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Even when you are celebrating Labor Day, it’s important to do so responsibly and choose a sober ride so we can all get home safely.”
Drunk driving has far-reaching risks and consequences, but you can always find a sober ride. That’s the message TxDOT hopes to spread with its “Drive Sober. No Regrets” Labor Day campaign and partnership with Texas law enforcement agencies.
Avoid end of summer regrets In Texas in 2024: During the summer, 273 people were killed and 596 were seriously injured in DUI-alcohol related crashes. (June 1 - Aug. 31, 2024) Over Labor Day weekend alone, there were 327 DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes, resulting in 10 fatalities and 36 serious injuries. (Friday, Aug. 30, 6 p.m. to Monday, Sept. 2, 11:59 p.m.)
24% of the total traffic deaths during the Labor Day time period in Texas were DUI-alcohol related.
Increased law enforcement
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is conducting a national increased enforcement period Aug. 15 - Sept. 1 to stop drunk drivers. Local Texas law enforcement will mirror the same enforcement period and boost efforts to identify motorists suspected of driving while intoxicated.
