TXDOT URGES DRIVERS TO HAVE A SAFE HOLIDAY WEEKEND

  

The Texas Department of Transportation is urging drivers to make plans for a safe and sober drive home during the Labor Day weekend.

TxDOT kicked off the “Plan While You Can” campaign on August 13th. The campaign aims to combat drinking and driving, with an increase in DWI enforcement throughout Texas.

TxDot Executive Director, James Bass, says that drinking and driving is a big problem in the state. During the Labor Day holiday period in 2015, there were 359 alcohol-related crashes in Texas that led to 12 fatalities and 36 serious injuries.

In Bryan and College Station alone, the number of alcohol-related crashes in 2015 totaled 208. This resulted in 6 fatalities and 12 serious injuries.

TxDOT strongly encourages everyone to plan for a sober ride home. In addition to potentially life threatening crashes, drivers under the influence of alcohol could face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time and loss of their driver’s license. Residents can visit SoberRides.org to find alternatives to drinking and driving.