4th of July Travel Forecasts & Safety Tips for Drivers

Texas Border Business

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TxDOT – What’s the best time to travel on Texas highways this 4^TH of July weekend?

TxDOT has created travel forecast for several interstates. See them below: 

Drivers can also always check road conditions throughout Texas at DriveTexas.Org or by calling 1-800-452-9292.

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TxDOT is also reminding everyone to celebrate Independence Day safely and always choose a sober ride.  

JULY FOURTH IMPAIRED DRIVING CRASH DATA

· In 2024, 18% of the total traffic crashes that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities during the July Fourth holiday reporting period in Texas involved drivers under the influence of alcohol (DUI-alcohol). 

· In 2024, 44% of the total traffic fatalities during the July Fourth holiday reporting period in Texas involved drivers under the influence of alcohol (DUI-alcohol). 

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· In 2024, there were 5,144 DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes during the July Fourth holiday time period, resulting in 64 fatalities and 223 serious injuries.

In the Pharr District during the 2024 July Fourth holiday time period, there were 14 DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes, resulting in 2fatalities and no serious injuries.

2024 — Wednesday, July 3 (6 p.m.) to Sunday, July 7 (11:59 p.m.) [Time period defined by National Safety Council]

What are TxDOT’s main messages to drivers?

• Drunk driving crashes are 100% preventable. Make the decision to always find a sober ride.
• Never drive after drinking any amount of alcohol. Here are some safe alternatives:
  • Designate a driver who won’t be drinking any alcohol. 
  • Call a sober friend or family member to give you a ride.
  • Use a rideshare or taxi service.
  • Use public transit. 
  • Stay put until you can safely get behind the wheel.
• Try to plan ahead but remember that plans often change. If drinking is going to be part of your gathering, play it safe and organize a sober ride ahead of time. Rideshares can be expensive, but paying for a safe ride is much cheaper than paying for a DWI or a life-altering crash.
• If you see that someone has been drinking, let them know you are worried about them and encourage them to find a sober ride or to stay put until they are sober. Offer to drive them home if you have not been drinking. We all play a part in helping keep our roads safe.

Information source: TxDOT

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