TxDOT Amplifies Anti-Drunk Driving Measures With Interactive Exhibits at Walmart Locations during Holiday Season

During this year’s Christmas season, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is stepping up its efforts to prevent drunk driving as a clear warning that the decision to drive while intoxicated can quickly ruin the joy of celebrations. According to the ATxDOT study, most people who acknowledged to driving under the influence said they did so after leaving a friend’s house. According to a news release from the Texas Department of Transportation, TxDOT is putting up a mobile interactive exhibit at Walmart sites to emphasize the dangers of drunk driving as customers flock to stores for holiday groceries.

State records show that the number of drunk driving cases increases to 28% as the holidays get near, which is higher than the norm of 25% throughout the year. “Drinking and driving is unacceptable,” stressed TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “It is unacceptable for a friend or family member to experience the loss of a loved one due to the actions of individuals who are drinking and driving.” For those that indulge, Williams advises making obtaining a sober ride a top priority. The Drive Sober. No Regrets campaign seeks to spread this message in bars, restaurants, convenience stores, and other public spaces like billboards, radio, and television.

Every day, almost 1,500 road accidents occur in Texas. In order to assist those involved in these collisions, first responders risk their lives. We want drivers to help keep them safe this Crash Responder Safety Week by slowing down or moving over.#EndTheStreakTX#CRSWpic.twitter.com/gaPMlst9ct #BeSafeDriveSmart

Many Texans, like Yolanda Carson of Mansfield, who lost her daughter in a drunk driving accident, are personally affected by this issue. Jade Jiles, Carson’s daughter, tragically passed away at the age of 23 while attempting to save a friend’s puppy. Last Thanksgiving and Christmas season, 126 individuals were killed and 272 were gravely injured in such avoidable situations. Their cries reverberate. “Our family continues to be devastated by Jade’s passing,” Carson added, reliving the tragic incident. She told TxDOT that she had a bright future ahead of her and that she was devastated that she couldn’t follow her aspirations or watch her six-month-old son grow up.

The timing of the campaign aligns with heightened law enforcement activity throughout the holiday season, which is characterized by joyous festivities and elevated danger, from December 13 to January 1. The #EndTheStreakTX campaign, which attempts to stop the daily death toll on Texas highways that has continued since November 7, 2000, includes this tactical response. TxDOT encourages people who are participating in holiday celebrations that contain alcohol to plan ahead by opting to stay put until sober, designating a sober driver, or using a ridesharing service, cab, or public transportation. According to the news release, TxDOT Media Relations can be contacted for media queries at [email protected] or 512-463-8700.

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