The end of summer should be a time of celebration; however, Labor Day remains a moment when too many people decide to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The danger is real not only for those who decide to be irresponsible, but for everyone on the streets and roadways. Last year, 35% of all traffic crash fatalities in Texas were related to alcohol or drugs.
During the Labor Day weekend of 2025, that figure rose to 57%, with 26 people killed in less than four days.
That is why this year the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is supporting efforts for greater police deployment in the state’s cities; in Houston it has joined the local police department.
To raise awareness in the community, TxDOT is traveling with its campaign “Don’t Regret It. Drive Sober.” The message is simple: “Drive like a Texan—be kind, courteous, safe, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
Stories like that of Jennifer Chavis, Harris County Precinct 7 deputy sheriff and a military veteran who dedicated her life to protecting the community, add to these tragedies. Deputy Chavis was on duty when she died because of a drunk driver on April 2, 2022.
After several 911 calls reporting the driver’s reckless behavior, Chavis was in a position to stop the vehicle when the driver accelerated and crashed into her patrol car, causing an explosion that enveloped her in flames. She did not survive, and the driver later admitted to having been drinking before the tragic crash.
“I still wait by the phone at night for my daughter’s call telling me she arrived home safely,” said Tanya Childress, Chavis’s mother. “Her young son is now growing up without his mother. Her brothers are now living without their sister and best friend. And all of this could have been avoided if the driver had not made the senseless and selfish decision to drive drunk,” she added.
During last year’s Labor Day weekend, one person died every three hours due to an impaired driver.
“There is never a good reason to drive under the influence. You always have options,” said Marc Williams, executive director of TxDOT.
“Texans look out for one another. If you’re going to celebrate Labor Day, protect your friends, your neighbors, and every person on the road: arrange your transportation before you start,” he added.
Alcohol is not the only danger. Cannabis, flu medicines, prescriptions, and any substance that affects judgment or motor function make driving dangerous. Texans have better options: call a ride-sharing service, use public transportation, designate a sober driver, or stay where you are. It is about awareness and prevention to prevent tragedies on streets and highways.
What is TxDOT doing?
TxDOT is offering funding grants to the state’s police agencies to boost their efforts to identify and arrest impaired drivers from now until September 7, which is Labor Day.
