Texas Wants to Save Drunkards and Boozehounds $17,000 This Year

Getting a DWI in the state of Texas can cost up to $17,000, according to recent statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation.

That's a good reason for people to be reminded of P.A.S.S (a Person Appointed to Stay Sober), because now through the end of May is reportedly the most dangerous time of year for alcohol-related accidents on Texas roadways - leading to repercussions ranging from DWI to death.

The latest report from TxDOT indicates that in the spring of 2011, nearly 30 percent of all traffic accidents were the result of drunk driving – almost 60 percent of those happened on the weekends. And while some people may not believe that a few drinks can hinder their ability to operate a motor vehicle, state authorities say that with a legal limit of 0.08, it doesn’t take much to put yourself in a position to either be involved in an life-threatening accident or arrested for DWI.

“People often don’t recognize the impact that one or two drinks can have on their ability to operate a vehicle,” said John Barton, TxDOT’s deputy executive director. “Alcohol slows your reaction time, reduces your ability to properly gauge speed or distance from other objects and makes it difficult for you to focus on the road. It takes less alcohol than you think so don’t take a chance. Always plan ahead for a sober ride home.”

During the month of March, the Texas Department of Transportation will be campaigning in entertainment districts and college campuses that “buzzed driving is drunk driving” and pressing the importance of always partying with a designated driver. In addition, TxDOT says they want to encourage people to start planning ahead before going out by using soberrides.org to ensure they have a safe way home.