Texas DPS to Increase Police Presence During Holidays

Be alert, Texas! The Department of Public Safety has announced that they will be "stepping up" enforcement presence throughout this week in order for Texans to have a safe holiday with friends and family.

Texas Highway Patrol Initiative

Texas Highway Patrol Troopers will increase their numbers on Texas roads beginning Wednesday, November 27th through Sunday, December 1st.

There are four main violations that troopers will be stopping drivers for during the holiday season:

1. Not wearing seatbelts
2. Driving while intoxicated
3. Speeding
4. Failing to follow the Move Over, Slow Down law
   1. Reducing speed to 20 miles below speed limit or leaving one lane between when passing roadside workers, law enforcement, tow trucks, utility vehicles, etc.

DPS Director Steven McCraw emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant on Texas roads during holidays. "There can be countless distractions this time of year," McCraw said. "Take your time, avoid distractions and let's ensure everyone arrives to their destination this holiday season."

Texas Law Enforcement Efforts

Just last year, DPS collectively distributed 41,093 warnings and citations. Also, there were 54 felony arrests, 36 DWI arrests, and 18 fugitive arrests.

DPS also offered safety tips that all Texans can follow as we all head into Thanksgiving and beyond:

• Make other plans if you plan on drinking alcohol and driving
• Eliminate distractions, buckle up and slow down during bad weather or heavy traffic
• Drive defensively and always remember the Move Over or Slow Down law
• Do not cut in front of large vehicles and don't brake quickly in front of them or any other vehicle on the road
• Always remember the Texas Roadside Assistance number (posted on the back of your driver's license) in case of emergencies
• Report any hazardous conditions or drivers to law enforcement

If we remember these tips, we can all have a rootin-tootin good holiday season in Texas!