Texas DPS Launches Holiday Traffic Enforcement Campaign

AUSTIN, TX – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is ramping up its efforts to keep roads safe during the busy holiday season. Beginning Dec. 20 and running through the New Year, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will increase patrols statewide as part of its annual Christmas and New Year’s traffic enforcement campaign. Troopers will focus on violations such as speeding, seat belt infractions, driving while intoxicated, and other dangerous behaviors.

“During the holidays, our roads are busier than ever, so safety must remain a top priority,” said Colonel Freeman Martin. “We remind Texans to stay alert, avoid distractions, and focus solely on driving. Let’s work together to ensure everyone makes it home safely for the holidays.”

The enforcement initiative is part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), a nationwide campaign running from Dec. 20 to Jan. 1. During the 2023 holiday period, DPS issued over 103,317 citations and warnings, which included:

• 28,578 speeding citations
• 1,538 seat belt and child safety violations
• 3,340 citations for driving without insurance
• 145 felony and fugitive arrests

Holiday Driving Safety Tips

DPS offers the following advice to help Texans stay safe during the holidays:

1. Don’t drink and drive: Arrange alternative transportation if consuming alcohol.
2. Eliminate distractions: Avoid using mobile devices while driving. Texas law prohibits texting while driving unless the vehicle is stopped.
3. Move Over or Slow Down: Always slow down for emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and others stopped on the roadside. Over 12,204 violations of this law have been reported so far in 2024.
4. Buckle up: Ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts.
5. Slow down in challenging conditions: Exercise caution in bad weather, heavy traffic, or construction zones.
6. Use the left lane for passing only: Adhere to Texas law requiring slower traffic to keep right on multi-lane roads.
7. Be cautious around large trucks: Avoid cutting in front of or braking suddenly near large vehicles.
8. Steer It, Clear It: Move your vehicle off the roadway after a non-injury crash if it’s safe to do so.
9. Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number handy: Call 1-800-525-5555 for roadside help.
10. Check your vehicle: Ensure it’s properly maintained and secure any cargo before traveling.
11. Monitor conditions: Check weather and road updates via Drive Texas.

DPS encourages Texans to use the iWatchTexas program to report suspicious activity that could help prevent potential threats, especially during large gatherings like parades and festivals. Reports can be submitted online via the iWatchTexas app or by calling 844-643-2251.

“While iWatchTexas is a valuable tool for community safety, remember it is not for emergencies. In urgent situations, call 911 immediately,” DPS emphasized.

For additional resources and information, visit the iWatchTexas website or watch the program's how-to video.

Stay safe this holiday season and help ensure that Texas roads remain secure for all travelers.