TxDOT: 25% of Texas Traffic Deaths Occur in Energy-Producing Areas

SAN ANGELO, TX - In 2023, nearly 25% of Texas’ traffic fatalities occurred in the state’s five main energy-producing regions, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

The areas, which include the Permian Basin, Eagle Ford Shale, Barnett Shale, Anadarko Basin, and Haynesville/Bossier Shale, experienced 1,081 fatalities from more than 80,000 traffic crashes.

TxDOT officials report that speeding and driver inattention are the two leading causes of crashes in these regions, where heavy trucks associated with oil and gas production frequently share the roads with passenger vehicles. 

To address the issue, TxDOT launched its “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign, emphasizing road safety through an interactive exhibit at high school football games in energy regions. The campaign offers motorists tips such as maintaining a safe following distance, staying out of trucks’ blind spots, and avoiding distractions while driving.

TxDOT’s efforts align with its broader “End the Streak TX” initiative, aiming to encourage safer driving habits and eliminate road fatalities statewide. The last fatality-free day on Texas roads was in November 2000.