The Texas Department of Transportation reminds drivers that law enforcement officers across the state are out in full force looking for drunk drivers in the weeks leading up to Labor Day, Sept. 7. Last year in Texas, 21 people were killed and 42 were seriously injured in 338 alcohol-related crashes over the Labor Day holiday.
“Labor Day weekend is a fun time for family and friends to celebrate, but you absolutely must have a sober-ride plan if you’re going to consume alcohol,” said TxDOT Executive Director Lt. Gen. Joe Weber, USMC (Ret). “Too many people are killed on our roads each year – especially during holidays – due to impaired driving. These crashes are inexcusable and 100-percent preventable. We are grateful to our law enforcement officers who will be keeping Texans safe by pulling over and arresting impaired drivers.”
Many Texas communities implement “no-refusal” programs over Labor Day weekend, authorizing law enforcement officials to obtain blood samples from suspected drunk drivers and motorcyclists. Drivers convicted of DWI in Texas face costs up to $17,000 plus possible jail time, limited career prospects and loss of driver’s license.
TxDOT strongly encourages everyone to have a plan for a sober ride before going out. Visit SoberRides.org to locate alternatives to drinking and driving, including:
- Calling a taxi or using a transportation app on your smartphone.
- Using mass transit.
- Asking a sober friend or family member for a ride home.
- Spending the night.
Pictured above (left to right) are Early Chief of Police David Mercer, EPD Sgt. Steven Means, Brownwood Chief of Police Mike Corley, Brown County Sheriff’s Captain Vance Hill, BCSO Sgt. Pete Bastardo, and BPD Assistant Chief James Fuller.
