BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is ramping up highway patrol efforts across the state in preparation for Memorial Day weekend. This initiative, which is part of the annual All-American enforcement campaign, aims to curb dangerous driving practices and ultimately reduce traffic-related deaths.
The intensified enforcement will run until May 26, focusing on seat belt compliance, restrictions on distracted driving, and adherence to speed limits. This initiative aligns with the national Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort (CARE), which strives to prevent traffic incidents during peak travel times, especially around holidays.
In 2024, DPS recorded over 122,000 traffic citations and warnings during the same campaign period. This included more than 8,400 speeding violations, 601 infractions related to seat belt use, and approximately 2,752 cases of uninsured driving, alongside 579 felony or fugitive arrests.
Troopers will also enforce the state’s “Move Over or Slow Down” law. This regulation mandates that drivers either change lanes or reduce their speed by at least 20 mph when approaching stationary emergency vehicles or Texas Department of Transportation vehicles. Violating this law could incur fines reaching $1,250, escalating if the breach results in injury.
Already this year, over 4,485 violations of the Move Over law have been logged, highlighting the ongoing risks to emergency responders on the road.
The DPS advises drivers to practice basic safety precautions: buckle up, stay alert, and avoid driving under the influence. State laws prohibit texting while driving unless the vehicle is halted.
To bolster road safety further, motorists are encouraged to be cautious, check travel conditions before heading out, and report any road hazards to local authorities. The Texas Roadside Assistance number, 1-800-525-5555, is emphasized as a 24/7 resource conveniently printed on all Texas driver’s licenses.
For live traffic updates, residents can visit DriveTexas.org, ensuring they remain informed during their travels.
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