Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers, along with other law enforcement agencies, will once again increase their patrols on the state’s roadways this holiday season, the Insurance Council of Texas reports.
Texas has the most alcohol-related traffic deaths in the nation, the ICT noted. Every year, 40 per cent of traffic fatalities in Texas are the result of drinking and driving. In 2017, there were 2,469 alcohol-related crashes in Texas during the holiday season. Those crashes killed 96 people and seriously injured another 202.
Texas also leads the nation in the number of traffic fatalities overall, which have risen every year since 2010. The state has recorded at least one traffic fatality every day since Nov. 7, 2000.
Texas DPS Sgt. Robbie Barrera said all available troopers will be working during the holiday season.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot), drivers under the influence of alcohol could face up to $17,000 in fines, fees, and could lose their license.
Troopers say the majority of intoxicated drivers are pulled over for violation of traffic laws that include speeding, changing lanes without a signal, failure to maintain a single marked lane and sometimes, driving too slowly.
TxDot has created a program called, Plan While You Can, which encourages drivers statewide to plan for a sober ride before enjoying festivities where drinking may occur. TxDot’s website: https://www.txdot.gov/inside-txdot/media-center/psas/drunk-driving/holiday-pass.html offers good advice on making it home safely during the holidays.
Source: ICT
Topics Texas Personal Auto
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