TxDOT launches “Drive Sober. No Regrets” campaign to combat rising DUI deaths.
HOUSTON — With the Fourth of July holiday approaching and summer travel in full swing, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has launched its statewide “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign, aimed at reducing the number of crashes caused by drunk driving.
The campaign, which began on Tuesday, aims to address the devastating impact drunk driving has on families and communities across the state.
More than 1,000 people died in DUI or alcohol-related crashes on Texas roads in 2024, equating to an average of three lives lost every day due to drunk driving.
“Three lives were lost every day on our roads last year because a Texas driver ignored the risks and chose to drink and drive,” TxDOT said.
In sync with the summer rush, the campaign will increase law enforcement efforts across Texas. From June 26 through July 13, officers will be on heightened alert for impaired drivers as part of a coordinated push to reduce DUI-related crashes, injuries and fatalities statewide.
This campaign and its law enforcement efforts stir up a lot of emotions for one Houston family.
On April 6, 2017, Marcus and Nicole Nalepa were taking their 8-year-old daughter, Kelsey, to softball practice in League City when their vehicle was struck by a drunk driver at a stoplight just feet from her elementary school. Kelsey suffered brain injuries and died two days later.
TxDOT is now sharing Kelsey’s story as a painful but powerful reminder that every life on the road matters.
Near the site of the crash, TxDOT installed a sign that reads: “Please don’t drink and drive. In honor of Kelsey Nalepa who was killed in 2017.”
The family hopes the sign encourages drivers to think twice before getting behind the wheel after drinking.
“If that sign saves one family, it is well worth it in my opinion,” Marcus Nalepa said.
The Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign ties into TxDOT’s broader Drive Like a Texan initiative, which encourages drivers to be “Kind. Courteous. Safe.” through shared responsibility on the roads.
“Making the choice to drive drunk instead of finding a sober ride home can and does lead to serious consequences,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “No one wants to live the rest of their life knowing they caused the death of another person on the road.”