TxDOT 10th Annual Holiday "Don't Drink & Drive" Campaign: Law enforcement agencies set to crack-down on drunk driving in Texas during holidays.

Local law enforcement agencies across the state, including Austin Police Department and Fort Worth Police Department, are gearing up for an annual campaign against driving while intoxicated in Texas. The Christmas and New Year's period typically sees a spike in drunk driving activity and alcohol related traffic fatalities. In response officers will be conducting extra DWI and safety patrols starting this week, and continuing into the new year.

The Texas Department of Transportation has issued grants helping local law enforcement pay overtime for the extra patrols. In addition, ad campaigns warn of the dangers of drinking and driving in Texas and recommend arranging for a cab, city transportation or a safe ride home.

Statistically, during December there are approximately 2,400 alcohol related accidents in Texas, with about 80 resulting in death. Last year, the five day window around Christmas accounted for 65% of the drunk driving related fatalities for the entire month.

A first offense, misdemeanor DWI could result in loss of driver's license, surcharges for the privilege to renew a license, fines, court costs and significantly higher auto insurance premiums. The financial impact of a DWI in Texas can range from $5,000 to $24,000.

Fatal accident occurred day after suspect bonded out of jail for drunk driving in Amarillo area.

The suspect arrested for a fatal drunk driving incident in Amarillo had been freed from jail just one day earlier on another DWI offense. William Shad Stephens had been charged with driving while intoxicated in Texas on Wednesday, December 9. It was his second offense for DWI in Texas. He was booked at the Potter County Jail and released Thursday. Shortly after 6:00 pm on Friday, Stephens was reportedly driving under the influence of alcohol again when his pick-up truck struck another pick-up, killing a man riding in the bed of the vehicle.

During an on-scene investigation, Stephens was placed in a police squad car for questioning. He escaped but was caught several blocks away and subsequently arrested.

Stephens, 33, has been booked on charges of intoxicated manslaughter and remains in jail on $65,000 bond. He had also been charged with possession of a controlled substance on December 3.