DPS Cracks Down On Traffic Violators During Holidays

SAN ANGELO, TX - As the holidays fast approach, the Texas DPS would like to remind everyone to follow all traffic rules to ensure safety. To help with this, DPS will be conducing enhanced traffic enforcement patrols during both the Christmas and New Year weekends.

DPS officials said both holidays are notorious for being full of reckless drivers who endanger the safety of everyone around them. Therefore, DPS deputies will be on the lookout for drunk drivers, people speeding, seat belt violations and anything else that may put the public at risk.

“Impaired driving or reckless behavior on the road can turn holiday celebrations into tragedies,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “These DPS patrols are designed to help save lives by identifying drivers who disregard the law and endanger others.”

Last year, the troopers had 466 DWI arrests, 9,174 speeding citations, 893 seat belt/child safety seat citations, 320 fugitive arrests and 286 felony arrests during the eight-day enforcement period.

“By always driving sober, obeying traffic laws, and slowing down or moving over a lane when vehicles are stopped on the side of the road, Texans can help make our roads safer for everyone,” McCaw said. 

DPS would also like to remind drivers of a few safety tips to consider as they travel during the holidays:

• Don’t drink and drive. Designate a driver or take a cab.
• Slow down, especially in bad weather, construction areas and heavy traffic.
• Eliminate distractions, including the use of mobile devices.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle; it’s the law.
• Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks that are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated – it’s the law. Also, show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the road.
• Don’t drive fatigued.
• Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and check the weather forecast before your trip begins.