A press release from the Texas Department of Transportation is urging drivers to make a plan for the upcoming Labor Day holiday. Officials are encouraging people who are planning on drinking to make arrangements for a safe and sober ride home.
“Drinking and driving remains a big problem in Texas,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “If you plan to drink, you must plan ahead for a safe and sober ride home. It’s a plan that could save a family — even your own — from the heartbreak of losing a loved one.”
TxDOT’s “Plan While You Can” campaign kicked off Tuesday in San Antonio and runs through September 5 to coincide with Labor Day and increased DWI enforcement in Texas. During the Labor Day holiday period in 2015, there were 359 alcohol-related crashes that led to 12 fatalities and 36 serious injuries.
According to the release, the campaign is a multi-city tour featuring an interactive dodgeball game that uses gaming technology to educate the public about the effects of alcohol on a person’s reflexes. As participants play, virtual drinks are added and the players’ on-screen avatars become less able to dodge incoming “dodgeballs.” The game demonstrates how even one drink can slow reaction times. In the Brownwood District, the tour will make a stop in Brady on Sept. 3 at the 43rd Annual World Championship BBQ Goat Cook-Off at Richards Park.
As always, TxDOT strongly encourages everyone to plan for a sober ride before going out. In addition to potentially life-threatening crashes, drivers under the influence of alcohol could face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time and loss of their driver’s license. Visit SoberRides.org to find alternatives to drinking and driving, such as:
- Calling a taxi or using a transportation app on your smartphone.
- Using mass transit.
- Asking a sober friend or family member for a ride home.
- Stay where you are and spend the night.
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