Spring Break Safety in Texas: Attorneys Warn of Drunk Driving Risks

Spring break is a time of celebration and escape for students and families across Texas. With warm weather, music festivals, beach trips, and parties, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. But with all the festivities comes a serious risk—an alarming increase in drunk driving incidents on Texas roads.

As personal injury attorneys, we see firsthand the tragic consequences of impaired driving. That’s why we’re urging everyone to take spring break safety seriously and understand how to prevent accidents during this high-risk time.

Why Spring Break Is So Dangerous on the Roads

1. Increased Traffic Volume
Spring break brings a surge of drivers on the road—students traveling to the coast, families heading on vacation, and tourists visiting cities across Texas. With more cars on the highways, the risk of crashes naturally rises.

2. Higher Rates of Impaired Driving
Drinking and partying are a big part of many spring break plans. Unfortunately, this also leads to a spike in drunk driving. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), March is one of the most dangerous months for alcohol-related crashes.

3. Young and Inexperienced Drivers
College students make up a large portion of spring break travelers. Many are relatively new drivers who may not be prepared to handle highway travel, heavy traffic, or nighttime driving—especially after drinking.

4. Fatigue and Distraction
Late nights, long drives, and constant activity can lead to drowsy or distracted driving. Both are major contributors to car accidents during spring break.

Spring Break Safety Tips to Prevent Drunk Driving Accidents

Plan Ahead for Transportation
If you know you’ll be drinking, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare app, or schedule a taxi in advance. Never assume someone else will stay sober.

Use Free Ride Programs
Many Texas cities offer free or discounted ride programs during spring break and holidays. Take advantage of these resources to get home safely without risking your life or someone else’s.

Host Responsibly
If you’re throwing a party, make sure to offer non-alcoholic drinks and stop serving alcohol a few hours before the event ends. Encourage guests to stay the night if they’ve been drinking.

Stay Alert Behind the Wheel
If you’re driving during spring break—especially at night—be extra cautious. Keep an eye out for swerving drivers, stay well-rested, and avoid distractions.

Talk to Your Teens or College-Aged Children
Open communication about the dangers of drunk driving can make a difference. Make sure they understand the risks and how to stay safe.

Legal Consequences of Drunk Driving in Texas

Drunk driving is a criminal offense in Texas with serious penalties, including:

Jail time
License suspension
Hefty fines
Permanent criminal record

If someone causes an accident while driving drunk, they can also be held civilly liable for damages. Victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Spring Break Accident

If you or a loved one is injured in a drunk driving crash during spring break, it’s important to act quickly:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek immediate medical attention
Document the scene with photos and witness statements
Don’t discuss fault with the other driver or on social media
Contact a Texas personal injury lawyer

Our legal team has extensive experience handling drunk driving accident cases. We can help you understand your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Final Thoughts

Spring break should be fun—but safety must come first. By planning ahead, staying alert, and making smart choices, we can all help reduce the number of drunk driving accidents on Texas roads. And if the worst happens, know that help is available.