The Texas Department of Transportation reports 4,150 traffic-related deaths in 2024, a 3% drop from 2023, yet the numbers still highlight a serious safety issue during the holiday travel season.
Holiday Travel and Rising Risk
As Texans hit the road for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations, safety specialists point to a higher likelihood of accidents. The holiday period brings increased traffic volumes and longer travel distances, factors that combine to elevate risk.
National Road Safety Foundation Findings
According to the National Road Safety Foundation, traffic-related crashes spike between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. This pattern is consistent with national data and underscores the need for heightened vigilance.
Common Causes of Holiday Accidents
Road safety advocate David Reich identified several primary contributors: driving while impaired, drowsy driving, and distracted driving. These behaviors create hazardous conditions for all motorists.
The Impact of Alcohol
Reich explained, “People are out partying, whether it’s a holiday or family parties. If it’s one or two beers or a glass or two of wine, that can make someone impaired.” He added that alcohol slows reaction time.
Reaction Time Matters
“It can slow down your reaction time, and that can make the difference between life and death, between a great holiday and a tragic one,” Reich said, emphasizing the critical nature of timely responses on the road.
2024 Traffic-Related Deaths
The Texas Department of Transportation’s 2024 figures show 4,150 traffic-related deaths, representing a 3% decrease from the previous year. While the decline is encouraging, the absolute number remains high.
Preventable Losses
Reich said Texas is moving in the right direction, but far too many deaths have occurred that were largely preventable. He urged the public to recognize the preventable nature of many incidents.
Remembering Those Lost
“Think about it, those are your fellow Texans, your neighbors, your friends, your teachers,” he said. “[Over 4,000] of them were killed on the roads.”
Teen Drivers at Risk
The National Road Safety Foundation noted that teenagers are especially vulnerable due to a lack of experience behind the wheel. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to make errors that can lead to crashes.
Parental Guidance
Reich encourages parents to talk to their children about being a smart driver. He stresses the importance of open communication and setting expectations for safe driving habits.
Speaking Up on the Road
“Whether you’re a teen or adult, if you’re in a car that you feel is being driven unsafely, don’t be afraid to speak up. Don’t worry about being a backseat driver. Also, most of the time, a driver will listen if they’re called out on their driving behavior,” Reich explained.
Fatigue as a Common Crash Factor
As millions prepare to hit the road ahead of the holiday, the National Road Safety Foundation highlighted fatigue as a frequent contributor to accidents. Drivers who are tired are less alert and more prone to errors.
Signs of Fatigue While Driving
The Foundation lists several indicators that a driver may be fatigued:
- Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, rubbing eyes
- Daydreaming or not remembering the last few miles driven
- Head snaps, nodding and yawning
- Drifting out of your lane, tailgating or hitting rumble strips
Take a Break When Needed
Drivers who notice any of these signs should pull over and find a safe place to rest. Taking a short break can prevent many potential crashes.
Key Takeaways
- Texas recorded 4,150 traffic-related deaths in 2024, a 3% decline from 2023.
- Holiday travel increases crash risk due to higher traffic and longer drives.
- Impaired, drowsy, and distracted driving are leading causes of accidents.
- Teens lack experience and are at higher risk.
- Fatigue signs include difficulty focusing, daydreaming, nodding, and lane drift.
- Pulling over to rest can save lives.
Final Thoughts
Safety experts urge Texans to remain mindful of these risks during the holiday season. By avoiding impaired driving, staying alert, and speaking up when necessary, drivers can help reduce the number of preventable deaths on Texas roadways.
