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Sobering Facts: How Alcohol and Drugs Impact Texas Roads

Written by

Rodney Crawford

in

Intro

Every year, alcohol and drug-impaired driving takes a heavy toll on Texas roads. Beyond the legal consequences, impaired driving can cause devastating injuries, fatalities, and lifelong regrets.

In this article, we’ll break down the real-world impact of impaired driving, what Texas law says about it, and how you can protect yourself and others.

1. The Reality of Impaired Driving in Texas

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, alcohol-related crashes claim the lives of more than 1,000 Texans every year. That’s nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities in the state.
Drug-impaired driving — from prescription meds to illegal substances — is also on the rise, making roads even more dangerous.

2. How Alcohol Affects Driving

Alcohol slows reaction times, blurs vision, and impairs judgment. Even at a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) below 0.08, your driving ability can be dangerously compromised.

3. Drug-Impaired Driving: The Hidden Danger

While marijuana and other illegal drugs often get the spotlight, even prescription medications can impair your driving — especially painkillers, sedatives, and certain anxiety medications.

4. Texas DUI/DWI Laws

In Texas:

  • BAC limit: 0.08% for drivers 21+
  • Zero tolerance for drivers under 21 — any detectable alcohol is a violation
  • Penalties: Fines up to $2,000 for first offense, license suspension, and up to 180 days in jail

5. The Costs Beyond the Fine

A single DUI/DWI can cost you $17,000+ once you factor in legal fees, insurance increases, and license reinstatement.

6. The Safety Risk

Driving under the influence — whether from alcohol or drugs — makes you more likely to cause a collision, injure others, or lose your own life.

📖 Read more: The Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on Driving Safety

7. How to Avoid Impaired Driving

  • Plan a designated driver before you drink
  • Use rideshare or taxi services
  • If on prescription medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist about side effects
  • Encourage friends and family to make safe choices

Final Thoughts

Texas takes impaired driving seriously — and so should you. The risks aren’t worth it. If you want to build better driving habits, knowledge is your first defense.

At Drive Smart Driving School, our state-approved driving courses emphasize safety and help drivers understand the full impact of risky behaviors.

🚦 Stay safe. Drive smart. Enroll in a course today and be part of the change on Texas roads.

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