Drunk drivers caused 21 traffic deaths in East Texas last year

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Law enforcement officers across East Texas will increase their efforts to pull over motorists suspected of drunk driving from August 19 through September 5.

On average, 1 person dies every 7 hours and 57 minutes in Texas because of a DUI-alcohol-related traffic crash. Last year, 1,100 people were killed and over 2,500 were seriously injured on Texas roads because someone chose to get behind the wheel after drinking.

In the Atlanta District in 2021, 330 DUI-alcohol-related traffic crashes resulted in 21 fatalities and 51 serious injuries. Over last year’s Labor Day holiday, there were five DUI-alcohol-related traffic crashes. The Atlanta District covers Bowie, Cass, Camp, Harrison, Marion, Morris, Panola, Titus and Upshur Counties.

In Texarkana in 2021, there were 48 DUI-alcohol-related traffic crashes resulting in 6 serious injuries.

“Even small amounts of alcohol can impair a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Alcohol slows reaction time, reduces the ability to properly gauge speed and distance, and impairs vision,” said TxDOT Atlanta District Engineer Buddy Williams.

“If you choose to celebrate the end of summer by drinking and driving, then know that police around the state will be on the lookout, will pull you over and arrest you,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “When you drink and drive, you put everyone else on the road at risk too. These crashes are 100% preventable and can have fatal and/or serious physical, emotional and financial consequences.”

Leading up to Labor Day, TxDOT is reminding everyone about the dangers of drunk driving. The campaign coincides with the national increased enforcement period sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

If your Labor Day plans involve alcohol, find a sober ride home. You can designate a driver, call a taxi or rideshare service, or stay put until you can safely operate a vehicle. Visit SoberRides.org for other tips on how to find a sober ride.

The Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel such as wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving and never driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. November 7, 2000, was the last deathless day on Texas roadways. #EndTheStreakTX asks all Texans to commit to driving safely to help end the streak of daily deaths on Texas roadways.