U in the Driver Seat

A collegiate peer-to-peer program dedicated to ending impaired driving.

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DUIs in Texas

DUI_TX_Featured3All too often, we have that friend that says they are totally cool to drive. “It was only a few drinks, don’t worry” they say. Sometimes, they get lucky and get home safe, other times, not so much.

In 2013 there were a total of 2,760 people involved in alcohol related DUIs in Texas.  Among these crashes, 33% involved drivers between the ages of 18-25. In the past five years, for drivers 18-25, alcohol related crashes remain the most common form of DUI incidents in Texas. However, drug related DUIs seem to be gradually increasing with the years.

DUI drug

Some good news is that 2013 also saw the lowest alcohol related DUI crashes rate for drivers ages 18-20 in more than five years which is awesome! However, drivers ages 21-25 were involved in more DUI crashes and experienced more fatalities than younger drivers and in 2012, representing the highest percent of the population in DUI crashes (1).
DUI alcohol

Despite the progress, work is still needed to be done. These troubling figures highlight the need for continued alcohol education after reaching 21. Outreach that seeks to not only stress the importance of designating a driver but also how to drink responsibly can help combat these high numbers in the future but it is an effort that we all must be a part of.

Tips for effective DUI Prevention outreach:

  • Always send a clear and short message about DUI and its risk.
  • Think of catchy ways to keep their attention. Humor is a great tool.
  • If you’re giving a presentation, ditch the PowerPoint, and try a more interactive approach like group activities or a performance.
  • Emphasize information that also includes “other drugs” besides alcohol in order to effectively capture the scope of the problem.
  • When talking about DUI preventions, make sure the audience knows how to party safely. Check out our Drinking Responsibly (Yes, it’s possible) page for more tips.
  • Everyone in college has heard myths about managing their drinking. Debunk them! Check out the Alcohol 101 page and clear the myths.
  • Download, hang and share these posters around your school, dorm, or apartments: UDS Posters and Digital Banners.
  1. June 30, 2014 extract of fatal and incapacitating crashes from TxDOT’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).