A Streak of Fatal Crashes in the Permian Basin this Month

TxDOT urges drivers to slow down and avoid distractions.

There’s been a fatal crash on Permian Basin roadways every day since Aug. 10, 2023, resulting in seven lives lost. This streak of fatal crashes is particularly significant since we are already outpacing the total number of deaths (9) in the month of July. TxDOT is urging everyone to do their part to “End the Streak” of deaths on our roadways.

In the Midland-Odessa area, the top contributing factors of fatal crashes are:

• Roadway & lane departure (40%)
• Intersection safety (33%)
• Speed-related crashes (30%)
• Younger drivers (24 years old or younger) account for 29% of all fatal or serious injury crashes

What can you do to keep from being a statistic?

• Match your speed to road conditions, including bad weather and work zones
• Allow for more distance to stop when traffic is heavy or roads are slick
• Watch for road signs alerting you of reduced speed limits ahead
• Always buckle up—drivers and passengers—day and night
• Use caution when trying to pass another vehicle
• Leave yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go
• Always give driving your full attention
• Put your phone away, turn it off, or use an app or your phone settings to block texts and calls or send auto-reply to texts while you are driving

Remember, fines double if you speed in a school zone or a work zone when crews are present.

TxDOT is committed to implementing safety enhancements on our roadways and encourages drivers to make smart decisions behind the wheel to help reduce crashes.

For additional information, contact Maryann Cedillo – 432-498-4746