The Texas Department of Transportation is launching a statewide impaired driving prevention campaign ahead of Labor Day as law enforcement agencies prepare to increase patrols through the holiday weekend.
TxDOT’s “Drive Sober. No Regrets” campaign is being conducted in partnership with the Texas Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies. Officials are urging drivers who plan to drink alcohol or use drugs to arrange for a sober ride.
According to TxDOT, 1,303 people were killed in impaired driving crashes on Texas roads in 2025. Alcohol- or drug-related crashes accounted for 35% of all traffic deaths in the state last year.
TxDOT said impaired driving deaths increased sharply during last year’s Labor Day holiday period. Twenty-six people were killed in impaired driving crashes over a period of less than four days, a 57% increase from the previous year’s holiday period.
Officials warn that impairment can result from alcohol, cannabis, prescription drugs, and some over-the-counter medications.
TxDOT recommends designating a sober driver, getting a ride from a friend or family member, using a rideshare or taxi service, taking public transportation, or staying in place until sober.
In addition to the risk of causing a serious or deadly crash, TxDOT said a DWI can cost as much as $17,000 in fines and fees and can result in jail time, loss of a driver’s license, community service, and other penalties.
The campaign coincides with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s summer impaired driving enforcement period.
Law enforcement agencies across Texas are increasing efforts to identify and arrest impaired drivers from Aug. 14 through Sept. 7.
