Independence Day traditionally ranks among the deadliest holiday periods on Texas highways, and last year was no exception with 133 alcohol-related crashes. In an effort to curb alcohol-related crashes and save lives, the Texas Department of Public Safety has stepped up statewide patrols during the 10-day Fourth of July holiday period that began June 28 and runs through July 7. For information about finding a sober ride home, visit www.soberrides.org.
To highlight the importance of the July Fourth anti-drunk driving effort, TxDOT recently unveiled its updated “Faces of Drunk Driving” website with new stories illustrating the human impact of drunk driving. The latest campaign features 9-year-old Xitclalli “Chilli” Vasquez, who was paralyzed from the chest down after being hit by a drunk driver in Fort Worth on July 9, 2011. Also sharing their story is the family of Aaron Pennywell, 20, who was killed by a drunk driver two years ago in Cypress. Through July 9, TxDOT will host “Faces of Drunk Driving” events across the state, urging motorists to be smart and drive sober. Watch their stories.
