As SXSW returns March 12–18, AAA Texas and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) are urging visitors and residents to plan a sober ride before celebrating. Heavy crowds, late‑night events, and congested streets significantly increase impaired‑driving risks during the festival.
Joining them is Eddie Jimenez, whose 7‑year‑old son was killed by an impaired driver. “We were just out having fun and somebody else’s choice changed everything,” he says. Jimenez will share his story and call on festival goers to make safe transportation decisions.
AAA Texas will also offer practical guidance for SXSW attendees using autonomous rideshare vehicles, a growing transportation option during the festival.
WHAT:
Press conference on preventing impaired driving and safely using autonomous rideshare vehicles during SXSW
WHEN:
Monday, March 9, 2026 — 10:00 a.m.
WHERE:
Liz Carpenter Splash Pad at Butler Metro Park
1000 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704
WHO:
- Doug Shupe, AAA Texas
- Linda Walker, MADD
- Eddie Jimenez, Survivor Advocate
WHY:
Alcohol‑impaired crashes kill 34 people every day in the U.S. One choice can save a life — or take one.