Austin, Texas – As millions of Texans hit the roads daily, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is calling on drivers and employees alike to do more than just follow the rules of the road — they are asking everyone to be part of the fight against human trafficking. The campaign is part of TxDOT’s ongoing effort to raise awareness during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, reinforcing the belief that “being a good Texan on the road isn’t just about driving kind, courteous and safe. It’s about looking out for each other, and that includes watching for the signs of human trafficking.”
Human trafficking can be difficult to detect. Unlike reckless driving or speeding, the signs are subtle — but often life-saving if recognized and acted upon. TxDOT’s campaign is designed to empower both travelers and state employees with the tools to spot these signs and report suspicious activity.
Training and Awareness at the Frontlines
As part of its statewide campaign, TxDOT has placed new posters in Travel Information Centers along major highways, aiming to reach as many drivers as possible. These high-visibility reminders serve not only to educate but to encourage a culture of vigilance.
TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams emphasized the power of collective awareness, saying, “What would happen if we all know the signs of human trafficking and act when we see it? We can work together to give anyone who travels in Texas peace of mind wherever they go. We know our transportation system can be a conduit for trafficking, which is why we are providing tips to our employees and Texas drivers on how to spot the signs.”
In addition to public messaging, TxDOT employees receive formal Human Trafficking Awareness training. This education covers multiple forms of trafficking, common red flags, and ways traffickers use transportation systems to exploit their victims. The training also includes guidance on safely reporting suspected trafficking without jeopardizing personal safety.
In one recent example of solidarity, TxDOT employees participated in “Wear Blue Day” — a visual show of support for trafficking victims and a reminder of the agency’s commitment to awareness.
The Red Flags Everyone Should Know
TxDOT is encouraging all Texans to keep an eye out for behaviors that could indicate labor or sex trafficking. Some of the most important red flags include:
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A worker who seems unable or unwilling to leave freely
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Workers living on-site or being transported to and from the location by a single person
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Groups of workers arriving and departing together under supervision
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Individuals who appear frightened, overly submissive, or paranoid
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People who defer all questions to someone else before speaking
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Visible injuries or branding tattoos, particularly names on the face or chest
Recognizing these signs can make a crucial difference. TxDOT urges the public to “trust your gut” when something doesn’t feel right.
How to Report Suspicious Activity
For emergencies, individuals are encouraged to immediately call 911. Otherwise, suspected trafficking can be reported through:
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The National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or by texting 233733
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iWatchTexas, either at 844-643-2251, online, or via their mobile app
TxDOT believes that with the help of a watchful public, more victims can be identified and rescued from dangerous situations. By creating a network of informed and observant Texans, the state can move closer to its goal of ensuring “a Texas where nobody is victimized by human trafficking, and everyone feels safe to travel our roads freely.”
