In Houston, the Texas Department of Safety (DPS) reported issuing over 18,000 citations during a two-day period over the Fourth of July celebrations. DPS also disclosed that 66 individuals were arrested on suspicion of DWI.
To enhance safety during holidays like the Fourth of July, law enforcement intensifies patrols to safeguard public roads. Annually, Texas implements Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE), which boosts the visibility of law enforcement agencies on highways. State troopers focus on identifying drivers engaged in offenses such as speeding and driving under the influence.
THE QUESTION
This Article Includes
In 2023, was the Fourth of July among the peak holidays for DPS DWI arrests in Texas?
THE SOURCES
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
Texas Penal Code
U.S. Department of Transportation
National Highway Safety Administration
THE ANSWER
Last year marked one of the highest periods for DPS DWI arrests in Texas.
WHAT WE FOUND
The KHOU 11 Verify Team reviewed records from Texas DPS detailing DWI arrests during periods of heightened law enforcement presence targeting impaired drivers. The data reveals that New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, and Easter are the top three holidays with the highest number of DWI arrests.
Operating motor vehicles, planes, boats, and amusement rides while under the influence can lead to DWI arrests. Penalties for individuals caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher can range from fines to incarceration. According to the Texas Penal Code, DWI offenses involving children, incidents causing serious injuries, and repeat offenses can escalate these penalties.
According to the latest report from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Texas leads the nation in fatal alcohol-related crashes. The Texas Department of Transportation ((TXDOT) reported 4,665 alcohol-related crashes in the Houston area last year, resulting in over 200 fatalities. TXDOT noted that one-third of these traffic fatalities occurred during the Fourth of July weekend in 2023.