AUSTIN – As football season kicks off across Texas, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds fans that the best game plan for any celebration is never to drive impaired. Whether you're tailgating before kickoff, cheering on your favorite team at a sports bar or celebrating a victory with friends, DPS encourages Texans to make a plan for a safe and sober ride home before the celebration begins.
'In Texas, we know that the best football teams always have a strong game plan before kickoff – and so should our fans,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “As you head out to watch your favorite teams this football season, make sure you have a game plan that keeps yourself and your loved ones safe.
“If you plan to drink alcohol, make sure your game plan includes a sober ride. Planning ahead can help ensure everyone makes it home safely,” Rippee said.
Alcohol-impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of preventable crashes and fatalities on Texas roadways. Nationally, nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities involve an alcohol-impaired driver, and in 2024 alone, 11,904 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes—an average of one person every 44 minutes. Drivers between the ages of 21 and 24 accounted for the highest percentage of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes, making college students and young adults among the highest-risk groups.
With thousands of Texans and visitors traveling to stadiums, tailgates and watch parties each weekend, DPS urges everyone to make responsible choices before consuming alcohol. Even small amounts of alcohol impair judgment, impact reaction time and coordination and increase crash risk well before a driver reaches the legal limit.
DPS encourages fans to follow these safety tips this football season and beyond:
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