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, Tx-DOT 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.
The information contained in this report represents reportable data collected from the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3). This information was received and processed by the department as of July 17, 2025. To view additional traffic safety data, visit TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Data Portal online.
