TXDOT HAS SPRING BREAK SAFETY PROGRAM
Colleges, universities, and all the public schools across Texas have begun spring break for this year. That means a lot more cars on the road and a lot of concerns for the Texas Department of Transporation.
TxDot launched its month-long DWI-Hangovers Don’t Go Away, campaign at a press conference Friday. The program is aimed at curbing drunk driving and fatalities among young adults and college students.
TxDot Deputy Executive Director John Barton said spring break is a fun time but the fun could be turned to tragedy when drunk driving is involved. He said the campaign highlights the dangers of drinking and driving, and stresses the importance of safe practices like designating a sober driver, which saves lives in the process.
In 2013, there were 25,158 DUI alcohol related crashes in Texas that resulted in the 8702 serious injuries and 1022 deaths. Of those crashes, more than 57 percent involved drivers between the ages of 17 and 34. During spring break 2013 Texas saw more than a 23 percent increase from 2012 in DUI alcohol related accidents.
The DWI Hangovers Don’t Go Away campaing will run through March 30th and will incorporate TV, radio, social media and other outreach components.