AUSTIN, TX ––With the vacation operating excessive and drinks flowing freely over the last weeks of the yr, TxDOT is reminding Texans to all the time discover a sober experience.
“Too often, a designated driver is chosen during the evening because they appear to be the “least drunk” person in the group. The designated driver should always be a sober driver who has not consumed any amount of alcohol,” TxDOT reminds drivers. “Designating a sober driver, calling a taxi, utilizing a rideshare service, staying the place you’re, calling a sober good friend or member of the family, and utilizing mass transit are the most secure methods to guarantee you don’t drive beneath the affect.
In December, TxDOT implements the annual Drive Sober. No Regrets marketing campaign to remind drivers of the implications of drunk driving.
Between December 1, 2020, and January 1, 2021, a complete of two,462 DUI-alcohol-related crashes had been reported in Texas. The crashes would declare the lives of 93 folks and significantly injure 215. This makes drunk and impaired driving a contributing issue in practically one-quarter of all vacation site visitors deaths.
In addition to the human value, drivers may additionally face up to $17,000 in fines and charges, jail time and and suspension of their license.
“Drinking and driving is 100% preventable and can have serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences that can last for years,” mentioned TxDOT in a press launch. “A DWI can hurt or kill someone, devastating the lives of victims and survivors forever. It can also cause significant and expensive legal issues, create difficulty finding or keeping a job and bring a lifetime of regret.”