The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is collaborating with law enforcement agencies from Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma for a joint enforcement operation. The operation will occur on Wednesday, May 14, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., focusing on drivers who violate the Move Over, Slow Down laws in each state.
“DPS is proud to join with our neighbors to raise awareness of the importance of Move Over, Slow Down laws in our respective states,” said Texas DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Too many law enforcement officers and first responders have lost their lives simply doing their jobs along the side of the road. This multi-state operation is about saving lives—ours and yours. If you see flashing lights, do what’s right: move over or slow down.”
Since November 1, 2017, there have been 142 crashes involving stationary DPS patrol vehicles in Texas, leading to 46 injuries among troopers and two deaths.
Texas law mandates that drivers change lanes or reduce speed when approaching vehicles with activated emergency lights. This includes law enforcement vehicles as well as fire trucks, EMS vehicles, Texas Department of Transportation vehicles, tow trucks, and others. Drivers should vacate the lane closest to these vehicles or reduce speed by 20 mph below the posted limit if it is safe and legal to do so.
Violations can result in fines up to $1,250 for a first offense. Causing bodily injury while violating this law can lead to a Class A misdemeanor charge with potential jail time and fines up to $4,000.
