SE Texas Times

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has launched its annual #EndTheStreakTX campaign, aiming to raise awareness about roadway safety across the state. Since November 7, 2000, Texas has experienced at least one fatality on its roads every day, averaging ten deaths daily. The campaign seeks to engage Texans in efforts to halt this 23-year streak of fatalities.

"The Texas Transportation Commission has set a goal to end all fatalities on Texas roads by 2050, with an interim goal to reduce them by half by 2035," stated the press release. TxDOT highlights that failure to stay in one lane, alcohol consumption, and speeding are the leading causes of these fatalities. In 2023 alone, there were 4,283 deaths from vehicle crashes in Texas.

To combat these statistics, TxDOT plans to invest $600 million over the next two years in safety improvements for Texas roadways. These enhancements include widening roads and adding rumble strips designed to alert drivers if they veer off course. Other measures involve reinforcing shoulders and turn lanes and deploying new technology aimed at increasing overall roadway safety.

Texans are encouraged to contribute to reducing road fatalities by adopting safer driving habits such as wearing seatbelts, adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions like mobile phones while driving, and refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

State Representative Todd Hunter emphasized the importance of public participation: "I encourage all Texans to join the effort to end this streak to protect our families." He urged citizens seeking more information about the #EndTheStreakTX campaign or other related concerns to contact his office for assistance.

Hunter represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County. He can be reached via email at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or phone at 512-463-0672 for further inquiries.