Photo Credit: TxDOTNews
Share the road safely in Texas energy zones
The Texas energy industry fuels jobs, economic growth and opportunity across the state, but the added truck traffic can bring unique challenges to drivers.
To help keep everyone safe in energy-producing areas, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is encouraging all motorists to be extra vigilant and always drive like a Texan: kind, courteous and safe.
Oil and gas production activity means large trucks and heavy machinery share the road with local traffic on rural roads and highways. Increased truck traffic can mean limited visibility for drivers and wear and tear on road surfaces, potentially creating hazards that are difficult to navigate and maneuver around.
While our oil and gas sectors may have been built with the grit and adventurous spirit of roughnecks and wildcatters, when it comes to driving in energy-producing areas, motorists should be more cautious than bold.
Crash statistics
- In 2024, 78,980 traffic crashes occurred in Texas’ five main energy regions—the Permian Basin, Eagle Ford Shale, Barnett Shale, Anadarko Basin and the Haynesville/Bossier Shale.
- Combined, these regions saw a slight decline in crashes compared to the previous year and traffic fatalities were down 5%.
- Yet 1,023 people were killed in roadway crashes, accounting for one in four of the state’s total traffic fatalities in 2024.
- Failure to control speed and driver inattention were the top two factors contributing to crashes in these regions.
Safety tips
To help keep yourself and other Texans safe when driving in oil and gas areas, TxDOT offers these important reminders:
- Drive a safe speed. Follow posted speed limits and adjust your driving to match road conditions.
- Stay alert and focus 100% on driving. That means putting your phone away: no talking or texting when behind the wheel.
- Give large trucks plenty of space. Be patient and pass trucks only when it’s safe and legal to do so.
- Maintain a safe following distance. Tailgating is a common factor contributing to traffic crashes.
- Avoid trucks’ blind spots. If you can’t see the truck driver in the truck’s side mirror, the driver can’t see you or your vehicle.
- Always get a sober ride. Even one drink of alcohol is enough to impair your judgment.
- Obey all stop signs and traffic signals. They’re not suggestions!
- Always buckle up. That includes drivers and passengers, day and night, every ride.
To get this message out and encourage cautious driving, TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign will showcase an interactive traffic safety exhibit at high school football games in the Permian Basin, Barnett Shale and Eagle Ford Shale. The mobile exhibit will feature quizzes, games and video displays that remind motorists to slow down and stay focused when driving in energy regions.
The “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.
Source: TxDOT
