The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is set to increase its patrol activities ahead of the Memorial Day holiday, detailed in a campaign aiming to ensure road safety and law compliance among drivers. From May 12 through May 26, in what has been branded as the All-American enforcement campaign, Texas Highway Patrol officers will be concentrating on seat belt enforcement and encouraging safe driving practices in order to reduce collision-related fatalities and injuries. This information comes directly from statements made to CBS Austin and KSAT.
According to Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee, "Our top priority is saving lives on Texas roads," a goal emphasized as the holiday draws near. In their dedicated efforts, detailed by CBS Austin, the increased law enforcement presence during this period aligns with Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). During last year's campaign in the same two-week span, officers issued more than 122,361 citations and warnings, which included 8,462 speeding violations, 601 seat belt and 2,752 for not having insurance, alongside the apprehension of 579 individuals on felony and fugitive warrants. Rippee told KSAT, "As Memorial Day approaches, we’re stepping up enforcement to ensure drivers are buckled up, attentive and following the law. These efforts help protect families and prevent tragedy."
The Texas DPS also reminds drivers of the legal imperative to yield to stationary emergency vehicles, as outlined by the Move Over or Slow Down law. Compliance with this law is crucial as violations can lead to a misdemeanor charge and a fine reaching up to $1,250, with heavier penalties at stake for repeat offenders or if there's resulting bodily injury. CBS Austin reports that these measures are not just about enforcement but also about instilling safer driving habits in the long term.
Providing road safety tips, DPS encourages drivers to remain vigilant by eliminating distractions like phone usage, adhering to the Move Over or Slow Down rule for all emergency vehicles, refraining from driving under the influence, using seat belts religiously, and adjusting speeds according to weather, traffic, and construction zones. The department has issued a plea, reported by KSAT, that the public remember to keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number — 1-800-525-5555 — a lifeline found on the back of every Texas driver's license, stored in their phones for immediate access when needed.
