Holiday travel in Texas often means one thing: more time on the road. Families drive between cities, college students head home, and highways fill up earlier and stay busy later. At the same time, winter storms roll through parts of the state, and more people choose to drink at gatherings and then drive.
That combination leads to real harm every year. In 2023, Texas recorded 4,291 traffic deaths and more than 15,000 serious injury crashes. TxDOT Many of those crashes involved speed, distraction, or impairment. During December in particular, TxDOT reports that drunk driving crashes peak, with more than 2,000 drunk driving-related crashes during the last holiday season alone.
You cannot control every risk on the road, but you can stack the odds in your favor. The tips below focus on simple, practical choices that help Texans travel more safely during the festive season, whether you face heavy traffic, rain, fog, or ice.
Texas Holiday Driving Statistics You Should Know
Texas recorded 4,291 traffic deaths in 2023.
A reportable crash happened about every 56 seconds statewide.
Almost half of people killed in passenger vehicles with known seat belt use were unrestrained at the time of the crash.
December recorded more than 2,000 drunk driving crashes during the most recent holiday season.
Nationwide, 1,038 people died in drunk driving crashes in December 2023 alone.
These numbers show how serious holiday travel risks can become and why safety decisions matter.
Texas Holiday Travel Preparation Tips
1. Check Road and Weather Conditions
Texas weather changes quickly. The Panhandle and North Texas may face snow or freezing rain while Central and South Texas deal with heavy rain or fog. Before driving:
Check weather forecasts along the entire route.
Review state road conditions and crash alerts.
Delay travel when ice, freezing rain, or severe storms are expected.
2. Inspect Your Vehicle Before Long Drives
Tires: check tread depth and inflation. Worn or low pressure tires lose grip on wet or icy roads.
Brakes: look for slow stopping, pulling, or unusual sounds.
Lights: confirm that headlights, brake lights, and indicators work.
Wipers: replace worn blades and fill washer fluid.
Battery: cold weather stresses older batteries, so test if needed.
3. Pack an Emergency Kit
Include items that help you during breakdowns or winter delays:
Warm clothing or blankets
Water and snacks
Flashlight
Portable phone charger
First aid items
Reflective triangle or flares
4. Plan Your Route and Timing
Leave early in the day when visibility is better.
Give yourself extra time so you do not feel pressured to speed.
Choose routes with steady speed limits and good lighting when possible.
Texas Winter Weather Driving Safety
Winter weather varies across Texas. Even light ice or freezing rain can make driving dangerous, especially on bridges and overpasses.
1. Driving on Icy Bridges and Overpasses
Slow down before you reach elevated roadways.
Do not brake suddenly while on a bridge or ramp.
Steer smoothly until you return to normal pavement.
2. Safe Speed and Following Distance in Winter Conditions
In dry weather, keep at least a three second gap.
In rain or fog, increase that to five or six seconds.
On icy or snowy roads, leave even more space and drive at a controlled speed.
3. How to Handle Rain, Fog, and Low Visibility
Turn on headlights in rain or fog.
Avoid cruise control in wet conditions.
Reduce speed and increase distance.
If you hydroplane, ease off the gas and steer gently without braking hard.
Safe Driving Tips for Texas Holiday Traffic
Holiday traffic increases the chances of sudden stops, quick lane changes, and unpredictable driving. You can reduce risk by:
Driving defensively and watching for merging vehicles
Keeping your phone out of reach to prevent distraction
Taking breaks every couple of hours on long trips
Staying patient in heavy traffic rather than weaving between lanes
Seat belts also play a major role in preventing severe injuries. Make buckling up a strict rule for every passenger.
Seat Belt and Child Passenger Safety
Seat belts save lives and reduce injuries. In 2023, nearly half of people killed in passenger vehicles with known restraint use were not wearing a seat belt.
Buckle up every time, even on short trips.
Children must ride in the correct car seat or booster for their size.
Do not place thick coats under harness straps, since this creates unsafe looseness.
Holiday Drunk Driving Risks in Texas
Drunk driving spikes during the holidays. More than 2,000 alcohol related crashes occurred during the most recent holiday season in Texas.
To protect yourself and others:
Plan a sober ride before attending a gathering.
Use a designated driver or rideshare service.
Offer a safe place for guests who have been drinking.
Speak up when someone attempts to drive after drinking.
How to Avoid a Holiday Car Accident in Texas
1. Preventing Distracted Driving
Set navigation before you start driving.
Silence notifications or place the phone out of reach.
Ask passengers to manage calls or messages.
2. Understanding Fatigue During the Holidays
Long drives, late nights, and busy schedules increase fatigue. To stay alert:
Share driving responsibilities.
Stop every couple of hours.
Pull over if you feel yourself drifting or losing focus.
3. Safe Night Driving Tips for Texas Roads
Reduce speed at night.
Keep the windshield clean to reduce glare.
Use high beams in dark rural areas and dim them for oncoming cars.
What to Do After a Holiday Car Accident in Texas
If a collision occurs, the steps you take immediately afterward can protect your health and your claim.
Call 911 and check for injuries.
Move to a safe location if the vehicle can be driven.
Exchange information with all drivers involved.
Photograph the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
Seek medical care, even if symptoms seem minor.
Notify your insurance company and provide factual information only.
Save medical bills, repair estimates, and all documentation.
When to Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
A holiday crash often brings medical expenses, missed work, and calls from insurance adjusters. A Texas car accident lawyer can help you by:
Reviewing crash evidence
Communicating with insurance companies
Explaining your rights under Texas law
Documenting the full impact of the crash
Guiding you through next steps in plain language
You do not have to handle the aftermath alone. If a negligent driver causes harm during the holiday season, Chad Jones Law can help you. Contact us now.
