This One Deadly Mistake Kills More Texans on the Road During the Holidays

Texas Leads the Nation in Drowsy Driving Crashes: A Holiday Reminder

"Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother's house we go…" The cheerful lyrics of this timeless Christmas carol evoke images of joyful family journeys. Yet, for many Texans, the trip to see loved ones during the holidays carries an unsettling risk, drowsy driving.

According to recent findings from Value Penguin by LendingTree.com and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving is one of the most significant contributors to fatal car crashes in Texas, particularly during holiday travel.

The Stark Reality: Drowsy Driving Statistics in Texas

While the national trend of drowsy-driving crashes has seen a decline over the past three years, Texas has unfortunately moved in the opposite direction.

• In 2023, 32 fatal drowsy-driving crashes occurred during the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
• By Labor Day weekend of the same year, this number climbed to 40 fatal crashes, making Texas the leading state for drowsy-driving-related fatalities.

My Experience With Drowsy Driving

I know firsthand how dangerous drowsy driving can be. Once, my wife Donna and I had to rush to Houston to check on my father-in-law. We left at nearly midnight, and I drove through the night. About two hours from our destination, I realized I was too tired to continue safely. I found a roadside RV park, pulled over, and took a nap. That brief rest rejuvenated me enough to finish the trip safely. From personal experience, I can say the best thing to do when you’re feeling drowsy is to stop and rest. No destination is worth risking your life, or someone else’s.

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Holiday Travel Tips: How to Avoid Driving Drowsy

The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the NHTSA recommend these steps to stay safe:

• Get 7–8 hours of sleep before traveling.
• Teens and young drivers are especially at risk, ensure they’re well-rested before driving.
• Avoid alcohol, check medications for drowsiness side effects, and time your drive to avoid peak sleepiness hours (midnight to 6 a.m. and late afternoon).

Stay Safe and Rested

This holiday season, prioritize safety by staying awake and alert. Your journey is just as important as your destination, so take breaks, plan ahead, and arrive alive.