Commerce, Texas — As spring break begins across the state, the Texas Department of Transportation and local law enforcement agencies are urging drivers, especially students, to avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking.
Authorities warn that what starts as a fun time with friends during spring break can quickly turn tragic when alcohol and driving are involved.
The Commerce Police Department and other law enforcement agencies across Texas will increase efforts to identify and arrest impaired drivers from March 6 through March 22. The enforcement period coincides with a national campaign supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
According to TxDOT, there were 354 alcohol-related crashes during the 2025 spring break period in Texas involving drivers between the ages of 17 and 30. Those crashes resulted in thirteen deaths and accounted for more than half of all drunk driving crashes during the same 10-day period.
“There is never a good reason to drive after drinking,” said Commerce Police Chief Corley Weatherford. “Everyone has the opportunity to choose a sober ride and prevent horrific crashes.”
Officials encourage students and other drivers to plan ahead before drinking. Options include designating a sober driver, using rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation, or staying where they are until they are sober.
Police also urge people to look out for their friends and avoid getting into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking.
“Encourage them to get a sober ride,” Weatherford said. “What might be an uncomfortable conversation could save a life.”
The campaign is part of TxDOT’s “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” initiative and the broader “Drive Like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe.” program, which promotes responsible driving across the state.
Officials say making safe choices behind the wheel can help prevent crashes and protect lives during the busy spring break period.
More information about the campaign is available at DriveLikeATexan.com.
