About Drive like a Texan
Texas roads are part of our daily lives. They connect our communities, our livelihoods, and bring us all back home. But every day, an average of 12 lives are lost in crashes on these same roads, caused by risky choices like speeding and distracted driving.
As Texans, we look out for one another, especially on the roads we share. Drive like a Texan, TxDOT’s newest safety initiative, is about upholding the famous Texan values we take pride in — treating every person with kindness, courtesy, and respect. It’s about the small, simple actions and safe habits that keep you safe and save lives.
By driving like a Texan and inspiring others to do the same, we can all do our part to care for one another out on the road.
It’s who we are and what we do best
Texans don’t just talk about values; we live by them. Here are a few Texan ways we can show up for each other on the road.
Drive Kind
It’s more than just obeying traffic laws; it’s about caring for one another. When you’re a friendly driver, you tend to get some of that Texas friendliness back.
Drive Courteous
Sharing the road requires respect and courtesy. Saying “thank you” with a wave is a simple way to show appreciation, and practicing patience goes a long way. When we’re polite in the driver’s seat, we make our own journeys even nicer.
Drive Safe
Remember, we’re not just cars on the road. We’re all neighbors. Avoiding distractions and risky behavior means keeping yourself, pedestrians, road workers, and fellow Texans safe.
Texas by the numbers
Texas is growing, and we’re sharing the road with more neighbors every day. Let’s keep up the good work and lead by example.
People projected to live in Texas by 2050
Show new neighbors what it means to Drive like a Texan — kind, courteous, and safe.
Safety belt usage in 2023
A huge win! Every minute of every ride matters. Buckle up for every journey, even if it’s short.
Total lane miles in Texas
We’re more connected than ever before. Make every mile count with small acts of courtesy.
Decrease in statewide road fatalities*
Small actions save lives. Let’s keep each other safe.
*Recorded Jan.-Feb. 2025 vs. the same period in 2024.
New Texans moving in every day
We’re glad you’re here! Every friend was once a stranger. Treat every person on the road with respect.
People are at the heart of Texas
We spoke to hundreds of Texans who inspired Drive like a Texan. Learn about their experiences on the road and hear from your neighbors.
One small decision can impact somebody else's life. When you're on the road in your vehicle, you're not just in charge of your own life. Everybody that you pass or you're driving next to on the highway, you could affect their life by one small decision, like looking at your phone.”
In Texas, people have empathy … they care about helping others, making a better community, especially when you are behind the wheel.”
We are supposed to help each other as Texans. When we are drivers, this is less of a help, and more of a responsibility. When we’re behind the wheel, we’re still supposed to be the kind of people that we want to be outside of the vehicle.”
I’m inspired to be a better Texan and even more thrilled at the idea that maybe people will start to change their behaviors on the road. I want to drive around and feel more safe.”
As a Texan, I value courtesy and try to be a considerate driver, yielding when necessary and showing respect for others on the road.”
