TxDOT URGES DRIVERS TO PLAN SOBER RIDES FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

  

As Texans make plans this weekend to celebrate the last few days of summer, TxDOT reminds drivers to stay safe and plan ahead for Labor Day activities.

According to figures from TxDOT, last year’s Labor Day weekend saw 328 crashes involving drivers under the influence of alcohol.  Those crashes killed eight people and seriously injured another 25.

Drivers under the influence of alcohol not only risk killing or seriously injuring themselves or others, but they also face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time, and loss of their driver’s license.

In addition to these penalties, House Bill 2502, which takes effect Sunday, requires a judge to include a minimum of 120 days of confinement when granting community supervision for leaving the scene of a crash that resulted in the death of a person.

Drivers are asked to find alternatives to drinking and driving, including: designating a sober driver or calling someone for a sober ride home; contacting a cab or ride-share service; using mass transit; or spending the night.

TxDOT Executive Director James Bass says the long weekend should be an opportunity to spend extra time with family and friends, rather than a tragedy that ruins lives because of drinking and driving.