Steven C. McCraw - Director/Colonel | Department of Public Safety webside
Steven C. McCraw - Director/Colonel | Department of Public Safety webside
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is set to increase patrols this weekend, focusing on keeping drivers attentive to their driving tasks. From April 7 to April 14, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will implement its annual Distracted Driving traffic enforcement campaign. This initiative specifically targets drivers who are texting, not adhering to the "Move Over or Slow Down" law, or otherwise distracted.
DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin emphasized the importance of this campaign, stating, "We’ve seen an alarming rise in incidents where our Troopers are being struck while working roadside—often due to distracted driving. Distracted driving is not just dangerous, it’s deadly. For the safety of all Texans, we urge every driver to stay alert, put the phone down, and give the road your full attention."
This enforcement campaign aligns with Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), a nationwide effort running from April 7 through April 14. In the previous year's effort, DPS issued more than 67,441 citations and warnings. These included over 4,815 speeding violations, 303 seat belt and child seat violations, 1,630 violations for driving without insurance, and 345 felony and fugitive arrests.
Texas law dictates that drivers must comply with the "Move Over or Slow Down" requirements, where violations lead to misdemeanor charges with fines up to $1,250. Additional offenses can incur higher fines, and if bodily injury occurs, penalties may escalate to a state jail felony.
DPS also offers safety tips for drivers to avoid distractions and enhance road safety.
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