DPS increases patrols for Memorial Day Weekend

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From Public Information Officer and Sr. Trooper with the Texas Highway Patrol, Dub Gilliam

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase trooper patrols this Memorial Day weekend to help ensure the safety of Texas roadways. During the increased patrols Friday, May 22, through Monday, May 25, troopers will be looking for drunk drivers, and speeding, seat belt and other traffic violators statewide.

“DPS urges Texans to celebrate Memorial Day responsibly as they honor the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Keeping our roadways safe for all travelers is a top priority for the department, and troopers will be watching for dangerous drivers who disregard the law and endanger the lives of others.”

Last year during the Memorial Day weekend, DPS troopers arrested 413 drunk drivers and issued 5,439 speeding citations, 1,053 seat belt and child safety restraint tickets, and cited 684 drivers for driving without insurance. Additionally, troopers made 182 fugitive arrests and 168 felony arrests.

DPS will also be participating in the “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.
• 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 tornadoes, thunderstorms and flooding, visit: http://dps.texas.gov/dem/ThreatAwareness/weather_aware_severe.htm.
• 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.