Drunk driving remains one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of traffic accidents in Texas. Despite decades of public awareness campaigns, the latest statistics show that alcohol-related crashes continue to claim lives and cause devastating injuries across the state.
In this article, we take a closer look at the data, examine the factors driving these numbers, and explain your legal rights if you or a loved one is harmed in a drunk driving accident.
THE NUMBERS: DRUNK DRIVING IN TEXAS
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Texas leads the nation in the number of drunk driving fatalities annually.
- In 2023, there were over 1,200 alcohol-related traffic deaths in Texas.
- Nearly 25% of all fatal crashes in the state involved a driver under the influence of alcohol.
- Thousands more suffered serious, life-altering injuries, including brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
These numbers are particularly alarming given the state’s long-standing zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving.
WHY DRUNK DRIVING RATES ARE STILL HIGH
Several factors contribute to the persistence of drunk driving accidents in Texas:
1. Large Geographical Areas and Driving Culture
Texas cities are often spread out, and limited public transportation options in rural areas mean many people rely on personal vehicles even after drinking.
2. High Number of Bars and Nightlife Districts
Urban centers like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio have thriving nightlife scenes, increasing the likelihood of impaired driving.
3. Repeat Offenders
Some drivers with prior DWI convictions continue to get behind the wheel, despite license suspensions or ignition interlock requirements.
4. Holiday and Event Spikes
Drunk driving accidents spike during holidays like New Year’s Eve, Memorial Day, and major Texas events such as the Houston Rodeo and Austin’s SXSW festival.
THE LEGAL CONSEQUENCES FOR DRUNK DRIVERS
Under Texas law, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious criminal offense. Penalties can include:
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Jail or prison time
- License suspension
- Mandatory alcohol education programs
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
For victims, these criminal penalties do not provide direct compensation for injuries or losses. That’s where civil legal action comes in.
YOUR RIGHTS AS A VICTIM OF A DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. Potential damages include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
In fatal cases, surviving family members may also pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral costs, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.
HOW AN ATTORNEY CAN HELP
An experienced Texas personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence of intoxication
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Pursue maximum compensation, including punitive damages
- Represent you in court if necessary
Drunk driving cases often involve aggressive defense strategies from the other side. Having legal representation levels the playing field and ensures your rights are protected.
PREVENTION: HOW TEXAS IS RESPONDING
TxDOT and law enforcement agencies continue to promote awareness and prevention programs, including:
- Sober Ride programs in major cities
- DWI task forces during high-risk holidays
- Public safety campaigns like “Plan While You Can”
- Ignition interlock requirements for repeat offenders
Still, the data makes it clear: the fight against drunk driving in Texas is far from over.
Protect Your Rights After a Texas DUI Accident
The statistics on drunk driving accidents in Texas are sobering—but they also highlight the importance of holding impaired drivers accountable. Victims have the right to seek justice and full compensation for their injuries and losses.
If You’ve Been Injured by a Drunk Driver
Contact The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC to schedule a free consultation. Our team will investigate your case, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Bryan Fagan is a Texas family law attorney with a heart for adoption—inspired not just by his legal career, but by his own family story. Growing up in Atascocita with two adopted brothers, Bryan learned early the profound meaning of chosen family. His passion for justice was sparked by John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief, and he became the first lawyer in his family, balancing night classes at South Texas College of Law while caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s.
Today, Bryan brings that same dedication to his practice, guiding families through adoptions, custody disputes, divorces, and complex marital agreements. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, he combines elite legal expertise with genuine empathy—drawing from his roles as a husband, father of three, and advocate for families facing false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is actively involved in the Houston Bar Association’s Family Law Sector and statewide family law organizations. Whether finalizing an adoption or protecting parental rights, he believes the law should reflect the deepest values of home, commitment, and love.