East Texas Traffic Deaths Jump; State Highest Since 1999

**East Texas Sees Alarming Rise in Traffic Fatalities for 2023**

TYLER, TX – East Texas experienced a concerning increase in traffic fatalities in 2023, with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Tyler District reporting 180 deaths last year. This figure represents a rise of 10 fatalities compared to 2022.

The trend mirrors a statewide increase, as Texas recorded a total of 4,481 traffic fatalities in 2023, marking the highest count since 1999.

TxDOT officials, who addressed the statistics in a recent press conference, highlighted several notorious hotspots for serious crashes within the region. In Tyler, particularly dangerous stretches include Loop 323, Spur 248, State Highway 155, and U.S. 69. Beyond Tyler, officials noted increased crash activity along I-20 near Lindale and US 259 north of Longview.

The primary factors contributing to these tragic incidents remain consistent: distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and failure to use seatbelts.

In response to the escalating numbers, TxDOT is intensifying its "Road to Zero" initiative, which focuses on ramping up education campaigns and enforcement efforts across the state. Officials stressed the critical need for all drivers to exercise greater caution and responsibility on East Texas roadways to help reverse the grim trend.