On Sunday, people across Texoma took the pledge to be safe and sober on the road. Workers with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) travelled to a variety of locations around Wichita Falls to promote awareness for safe and sober driving this holiday season. It’s no secret that impaired driving crashes tend to increase during the holidays, so the TxDOT’s “Holiday Sober Ride” campaign is aimed at educating drivers and passengers about the dangers of impaired driving.
Holiday Sober Ride Campaign
The TxDOT’s Holiday Sober Ride Campaign sent organizers into Wichita Falls on Sunday in a bright red limousine to raise awareness for the cause. They started at Sheppard Air Force Base, where service members took the pledge to stay safe and sober behind the wheel. They also have a website where citizens can sign up to take the pledge and get entered to win prizes. TxDOT workers are hoping to reduce impaired driving crashes this holiday season through education and awareness. Their brightly decorated limousine could be seen throughout town on Sunday as a reminder for drivers to plan ahead this holiday season. They also noted the importance of not riding in the car with an impaired driver.
Holiday Impaired Driving Statistics
- In December of last year, there were over 700 alcohol-related crashes in Texas.
- In 2011, 760 people died in drunk-driving-related crashes in the month of December.
- From 2007 to 2011, 14,318 people were killed in traffic crashes in December.
- Of those people killed, 4,169 (29 percent) died in crashes involving drunk drivers.
- Of the 32,367 people who died in motor vehicle crashes in 2011, 31 percent were killed in drunk-driving-related crashes.
Make a Plan
Taking the pledge is a great step towards reducing impaired driving crashes this holiday season. With an increase in parties, celebrations and festivities this time of year, Party-goers are encouraged to plan ahead. Make sure you have a safe ride home before you begin celebrating. Additionally, if you know that an impaired person is about to get behind the wheel, take his or her keys away and help that person find a safe ride home.
A Safe and Happy Holiday Season
If you or a loved one has been injured by an impaired driver, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at the Altman Legal Group at 940-761-4000 for a free consultation. The team at the Altman Legal Group wishes everybody safe and happy holiday travels.