The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will significantly increase trooper patrols this Memorial Day weekend to help keep Texas roadways safe. During the increased patrols Friday, May 23, through Monday, May 26, troopers will be looking for drunk drivers, and speeding, seat belt and other traffic violators statewide.

“Memorial Day is a time of remembrance for those who have selflessly served our nation and made the ultimate sacrifice,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “As Texans mark the holiday, DPS urges drivers to obey all traffic laws and act responsibly by not drinking and driving. Trooper patrols will be targeting unsafe drivers who violate the law and jeopardize the safety of travelers on our roadways.”

Last year during the Memorial Day weekend, DPS troopers arrested 460 drunk drivers and issued 5,036 speeding citations, more than 800 seat belt and child safety restraint tickets, and cited 698 drivers for driving without insurance.  Additionally, troopers arrested 281 wanted fugitives and 186 suspects with felony warrants.

DPS is also participating in the “Click It or Ticket” enforcement campaign through June 1, 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:

• Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas.
• 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.