Over the course of Labor Day weekend, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) increased law enforcement coverage and is encouraging everyone to drive safely.
In an effort to reduce crashes, the Texas Highway Patrol stepped up patrols from Sept. 1, through midnight Sept. 4, looking for people not wearing their seat belts, speeders, people driving while intoxicated and drivers who fail to follow the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law, among other traffic violations.
“Roads are always busy during the holiday weekend and we always want everyone to get to and from their destinations safely,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Do your part by paying attention to the road, put your phone down, buckle up, slow down and obey all traffic laws, so that we can end the summer on a safe note.”
During the 2022 Labor Day holiday enforcement period, troopers statewide issued more than 64,000 citations and warnings. This included 5,513 citations for speeding; 720 seat belt and child safety restraint citations; 1,314 citations for no insurance; and 230 warnings and citations for Move Over, Slow Down violations. DPS also had 288 DWI arrests, 280 felony arrests and 155 fugitive arrests.
Drivers were asked to keep the below tips in mind during the Labor Day holiday: Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if alcohol is consumed.
Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, TxDOT vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle as it’s the law. Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If a navigation device or app is used, have a passenger operate it so the driver can keep their eyes on the road.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
Know the specific route before beginning a trip.
Don’t drive fatigued. Allow plenty of time to reach the desired destination.
Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in a phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.
On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only when posted.
If anyone can Steer It, Clear It: If anyone is involved in a non-injury crash and the vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm of a secondary wreck. On some highways, if no one does not move the vehicle when it’s safe to do so, that individual is violating the law.
Don’t cut in front of large trucks, and try not to brake quickly in front of them, if possible. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
Check the vehicle to make sure it’s properly maintained and always ensure all cargo is secure. Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Monitor weather and road conditions wherever traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas.
DPS is encouraging all drivers to practice these safe driving methods moving forward after the holiday.