Texas is a big energy-producing state with a lot of big trucks. Semis, trailers and tankers mix with rural farmers and ranchers to produce heavy truck traffic in the state’s energy sectors. The Energy Sector Safety Campaign is under the umbrella of Be Safe. Drive Smart. The campaign focuses on reminding drivers to be extra cautious when driving through energy sector areas.

Crash Data

Motorists traveling through energy sectors make up a large number of the state’s fatalities. In 2017, more than 194,000 crashes — an average of 532 per day in the state’s five main oil and gas production regions —resulted in 1,614 deaths and 7,422 serious injuries, a slight increase over the previous year. Below is a breakdown of crashes per energy region for 2017:

• Barnett Shale: there were 111,840 traffic crashes in the 25-county Barnett Shale region resulted in 715 fatalities and 4,104 serious injuries. 
• Eagle Ford Shale: there were 20,464 traffic crashes in the 26-county Eagle Ford Shale region resulted in 252 fatalities and 1,000 serious injuries. 
  
• Granite Wash: there were 8,339 traffic crashes in the 26-county Granite Wash region resulted in 95 fatalities and 361 serious injuries. 
• Haynesville/Bossier Shale: there were 9,081 traffic crashes in the 10-county Haynesville/Bossier Shale region resulted in 137 fatalities and 466 serious injuries. 
• Permian Basin: there were 43,661 traffic crashes in the 61-county Permian Basin region resulted in 405 fatalities and 1,457 serious injuries.

Safety Tips

Drivers are urged to use extra caution when driving through energy sector areas. Drivers should expect the unexpected by staying alert and watching out for other vehicles, especially heavy trucks that have limited sight or move at a slower speed, and who may also require a greater distance to make a full stop. Following these basic safety precautions may help to save a life:

• Always buckle up
• Pay attention (put phone away – no talking or texting)
• Give trucks space
• Obey speed limits
• Stop for all stop signs and red lights
• Pass carefully when allowed

Drivers are reminded to never drive while under the influence alcohol or other drugs or consuming medications that may cause sleepiness or drowsiness. Remember to always drive to conditions; slowing down and following posted limits; pass only when it’s legal and safe, and move over or slow down when there are flashing lights on a law enforcement vehicle, emergency vehicle, tow truck or TxDOT vehicle that may be stopped along the side of the road.