DPS Increases Patrols Statewide to Enforce Safe Driving for Memorial Day Weekend

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Department of Public Safety will increase patrols across the state as part of its annual All-American Enforcement Campaign leading up to Memorial Day weekend.

From May 11 through May 25, the Texas Highway Patrol will focus on enforcing seat belt laws and promoting safe driving behaviors in an effort to reduce crashes and save lives.

“Seat belts save lives— it’s that simple,” said Chief of the Texas Highway Patrol Bryan Rippee. “Buckling up is one of the easiest decisions you can make to protect yourself and your loved ones every time you get on the road.”

The campaign is part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing traffic incidents during peak travel periods.

During last year’s enforcement period, DPS reported issuing more than 156,000 citations and warnings, including nearly 9,800 for speeding, 780 for seat belt violations and more than 3,800 for driving without insurance. Officers also made 902 felony and fugitive arrests.

So far in 2026, DPS has recorded more than 6,900 violations of Texas’ Move Over or Slow Down law, which requires drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks or Texas Department of Transportation vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights.

Under state law, drivers must either vacate the lane closest to emergency vehicles on multi-lane roads or slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit. Violations can result in fines of up to $1,250, with increased penalties for repeat offenses or incidents involving injury.

DPS is also urging drivers to follow basic safety precautions during the holiday travel period, including avoiding distractions, not driving under the influence, wearing seat belts, obeying speed limits and monitoring road conditions.

Officials encourage motorists to report hazards or suspicious activity to local law enforcement.