DPS Urges Safe Driving During Memorial Day Weekend

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will join law enforcement from across the state this Memorial Day weekend in an effort to make Texas roadways safer and encourage safe driving habits. From Friday, May 27, through Monday, May 30, DPS Troopers will be on the lookout for drunk drivers, as well as travelers violating speed, seat belt and other traffic laws.

“As we take time this Memorial Day to remember the sacrifices of those who have served our country, we urge Texans to be responsible and plan ahead to prevent needless tragedies from occurring on our roadways this holiday weekend,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Don’t drink and drive, slow down, obey traffic laws, and exercise caution when traveling. DPS and other law enforcement will do our part by watching for those who are endangering the lives of other travelers on Texas roadways.”

Last year during the Memorial Day weekend, DPS Troopers arrested 270 drunk drivers and issued 3,766 speeding citations, 571 seat belt and child safety restraint tickets, and cited 507 drivers for driving without insurance. Additionally, Troopers made 122 fugitive arrests and 99 felony arrests.

DPS also supports the state’s “Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign to encourage drivers and passengers to comply with state seat belt laws.

Drivers can take a variety of measures to help ensure safe travel during the Memorial Day weekend, including:

• Do not drink and drive.
• Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas.
• Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle – it’s the law … “Click It or Ticket.”
• Don’t drive fatigued, and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before your trip begins.
• Slow down or move over for tow trucks and police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated – it’s the law.
• Monitor weather conditions in your area.

  In the event of inclement weather, avoid high water and use extra caution on roadways.

  For safety tips related to severe storms, visit: http://dps.texas.gov/dem/ThreatAwareness/weather_aware_severe.htm.