TxDOT Bryan District launches video series to raise awareness of 25-year traffic fatality streak in Texas.

 

The Texas Department of Transportation’s Bryan District is partnering with internal staff, local first responders, and a crash survivor to spotlight the devastating impact of preventable traffic crashes—and to call on all Texans to help end the 25-year-long streak of daily roadway deaths.

 

Over the past week, the Bryan District has released a compelling video series across its social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and X), each video highlighting a different aspect of traffic safety and the human toll of fatal crashes. This effort is part of the statewide #EndTheStreakTX initiative, which aims to stop the tragic trend that has claimed at least one life every day on Texas roads since November 7, 2000. In that time, more than 91,000 lives have been lost—mothers, fathers, children, friends—each one a preventable tragedy.

 

While TxDOT continues to engineer safer roads and DPS enforces traffic laws, the power to end this streak lies with every driver. Buckling up, staying alert, driving sober, and obeying speed limits are simple choices that save lives.

 

The final video is included with this release, but we encourage everyone to visit our social media pages to view the full series. These stories are powerful, personal, and real—and they deserve to be seen and shared. Please take a moment to watch, reflect, and share them with your family and friends. Together, we can help save lives.

 

Video Series Breakdown:

  • Monday, November 3:
    Bryan District Intern shares a deeply personal story about a crash that could have ended in tragedy—but didn’t, thanks to one life-saving decision: wearing a seatbelt. Her message underscores the emotional weight of responsibility, the courage to speak up about safety, and the life-saving power of a simple click.
  • Wednesday, November 5:
    A series of interviews with first responders—including law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS—offers a raw, emotional look at what it’s like to arrive at the scene of a fatal crash. They share the lasting emotional toll these incidents take and how the public can support their efforts by making safer choices behind the wheel.
  • Friday, November 7:
    A crash survivor and the first responders who helped her come together to share their perspectives on the same incident. The survivor recounts her journey through recovery, while responders reflect on the scene, the emotional aftermath, and the broader patterns they see in fatal crashes. Their stories highlight the real-life consequences of speeding, distraction, and impaired driving.

 

We extend our deepest gratitude to the individuals who bravely shared their stories and experiences for this effort. Fire Chief Michael Kimich and Captain Rob Weeks of the Anderson Volunteer Fire Department, Trooper Cisneros and Sergeant Justin Ruiz with the Texas Department of Public Safety, and Lieutenant Austin Stearns of the Bryan Police Department all offered powerful insights from the front lines of emergency response. From the Buffalo Volunteer Fire Department, Jacob Davis and Robby Boettcher shared their perspectives, while Officer Matt Yevcak with the Texas A&M Police Department contributed his voice and experience as well. We are also especially thankful to community members Ashley Armatys and Reagan Thompson, who bravely revisited some of the most difficult moments of their lives to help others understand the real impact of unsafe driving.

 

Please remember – the people in the cars around you have lives, families, and futures—just like you. Please do your part: Watch your speed. Drive sober. Avoid distractions. Buckle up.
Together, we can #EndTheStreakTX.

 

The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, maritime, rail and public transportation across the state.