The Texas Department of Transportation reports that Ector and Midland counties have the highest number of car accident fatalities in the Odessa District. DPS Sgt. Erick Montano said there have been 128 traffic fatalities in the district so far this year, including 35 in Ector County and 36 in Midland County. Montano pointed to ongoing road work, especially along Interstate 20, as a significant factor in local wrecks. He said new construction barriers can be dangerous if a driver has to take evasive action, and urged drivers to keep their distance.
Montano also asked drivers to share the road safely with commercial vehicles, which he said are wider than passenger cars and may need to move into other lanes on narrow roads. He urged drivers to avoid weaving between vehicles and to drive defensively.
With the return to standard time, Montano warned drivers to stay alert during peak commute hours between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m., when morning fog reduces visibility. DPS advises drivers to keep their fuel tanks full and carry an emergency roadside kit for tire trouble or other breakdowns.