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.

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has announced that extra troopers will be on patrol during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. They will be targeting speeders, those not using seat-belts or safety constraints, and those suspected of driving while intoxicated.

During the same Wednesday-Sunday period last year, the DPS issued 5,322 citations for speeding citations, 562 for seat belt violations and 257 for improper child restraint. 252 arrests were made for suspicion of DWI.

As a reminder for seat-belt laws, this past September all passengers are required to wear a seat-belt, including the back seat passengers.