Drunk driving claims hundreds of lives every year in Texas
(September 6, 2022) San Antonio is ranked among the most deadly cities in the United States for drunk driving over the holidays. In an effort to prevent as much tragedy as possible, the TxDOT worked with law enforcement agencies across San Antonio to increase DWI patrols over Labor Day Weekend. Last year, the statewide fatality report due to drunk driving was a staggering 963 persons. Despite the increased efforts of law enforcement, two separate DWI incidents resulted in one pedestrian death in one night, September 3, 2022. Thousands of families are affected by drunk drivers every year, and law enforcement efforts can only do so much to stop drunk driving in Texas. In this article, we’ll talk about driving safely during the holidays and how to report drunk drivers when you see them on the roads.
Did you know?
Despite Fiesta being nearly back to full swing this year since the pandemic, DWI arrests during that time were lower than the previous year and totaled only 129. 2019 saw 227, and 2021 saw 169 DWI arrests.
Holiday Driving in San Antonio
A recent study found that San Antonio drivers are fifty-four percent more likely to encounter drunk drivers on the road during Labor Day Weekend. Additionally, drivers are at most risk for encountering drunk motorists during Fourth of July week across the nation, with a seventy-eight percent greater than average chance. The number one deadliest night for encountering drunk drivers is undoubtedly New Year’s Day, with a staggering 116% above average likelihood.
For more information on national drunk driving statistics, please visit this website.
Staying Safe During the Holidays
If at all possible, it is safer for you and your family to avoid driving on a major holiday night. This is sometimes unavoidable, however. If you plan on driving on the night of a major holiday in San Antonio, here are a few tips to stay safe.
1. Buckle up – This may seem obvious, but a majority of serious injuries and deaths from auto accidents are a result of failure to utilize safety restraints. It’s also a good idea to make sure your child’s car seat is properly attached to the seat if you have one.
2. Put your phones away – Distracted driving is the leading cause of auto accidents in San Antonio, even above that of drunk driving. Especially at night, keep your eyes off your phone and on the road.
3. Plan your return home trip in advance – If you’re going to be drinking and don’t have a designated driver, make a plan of whom you’re going to call. Use a rideshare service, taxi, or a family member.
How to Report a Drunk Driver
In a non-emergency situation, if you witness a drunk driver on the road in Texas, you can call 1-800-525-5555. If the driver is posing an immediate threat to others, or if you witness an accident, call 9-1-1.
Some people are reluctant to report drunk drivers because they wish to mind their own business and don’t want to be responsible for getting someone arrested. However, just because the impaired driver didn’t injure you doesn’t mean they won’t injure someone else. If you suspect a drunk driver, report the incident.
Injury Help
If you have been injured by a drunk driver in San Antonio, call the Carabin Shaw Law Office at 800-862-1260 to receive your free case evaluation today.