Pictures of Tess Rowland, her crash and recovery
(Houston, TX) – Coming up this Saturday and Monday in Houston, the major college basketball match ups, the Final Four, will take place, and often times with big sporting events – they are often celebrated by friends and families at bars, restaurants and house parties. With the potential for fans to enjoy the big games with alcohol, AAA Texas reminds everyone that before you head out, make plans to get home safe.
According to the latest statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2022, 1,141 fatalities were attributed to DUI statewide which is a six percent increase over the previous year. The number of injuries which were reported as alcohol-related also increased from 2021 by around one percent.
“Anyone planning to consume alcohol or host a Final Four party should create a plan in advance to ensure themselves and loved ones get home safe,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Joshua Zuber. “Consuming alcohol and getting behind the wheel significantly increases the likelihood of a crash.”
Earlier this year, Tess Rowland became the new, National President of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), less than two years since a suspected drunk driver hit her head-on, causing severe, life-threating injuries. "This weekend, just like every other day, remember: if you drink, don’t drive. Always designate a non-drinking, unimpaired driver or plan to use public transportation or ride share to get home safely,” Rowland said. “We at MADD stand with AAA Texas and the Houston Police Department to ensure that everyone understands the dangers of drunk and drugged driving so that we can solve this issue and save lives.”
Tips for Staying Safe and Avoid Impaired Driving
For Party Hosts:
- Ask all your guests to designate a sober driver in advance.
- Keep phone numbers for sober ride services handy. Be a responsible host. Take car keys from partygoers as they arrive and don’t let them drive impaired.
- Serve food and non-alcoholic drinks and water. Many zero-proof mocktail recipes, including those featuring team colors, can be found online.
- Serve protein-rich and starchy foods to slow alcohol absorption.
- Do not serve alcohol to anyone under age 21.
- Allow guests to stay overnight, if possible.
- Thank designated drivers with a small gift.
For Party Guests or Patrons Watching at Restaurants and Bars:
- Designate a sober driver in advance if attending a watch party.
- Keep a ride service app in your mobile phone so you can arrange for a ride home. Make sure the ride service driver matches the driver on the app.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol too quickly. Eat food and drink water during the party.
- Call a sober friend or family member for a ride if you’ve been drinking. Or, if possible, stay where you are for the night.
- Never ride as a passenger in a car driven by someone who has been drinking alcohol – even after just one drink.
- If you’re under 21, do not consume alcohol.
- Buckle your seat belt each time you’re in a vehicle.
- If you encounter an impaired driver on the road, keep a safe distance and ask a passenger to call 911 (or pull over to a safe location to make the call yourself).
About AAA: AAA provides more than 63 million members with automotive, travel, insurance and financial services through its federation of independently owned motor clubs and nearly 1,000 branch offices across North America. Since 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the motorist and safe mobility. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. AAA Texas branch offices throughout the state can be found by visiting www.AAA.com. Follow AAA Texas on Twitter: @AAATexas and Facebook: www.facebook.com/AAATexas.
About MADD:
MADD provides supportive services to survivors of drunk and drugged driving at no charge through local victim advocates and the 24-Hour Victim Help Line. If you or someone you know needs help, MADD is here for you at 1-877-MADD-HELP.