The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase DWI patrols for a 15-day period that includes both the Christmas and New Year holidays. From December 19 – January 2, DPS troopers will focus DWI patrols in high-risk locations at times when alcohol-related crashes are most frequent.

“DPS’ enhanced patrols are designed to help save lives by identifying impaired and dangerous drivers and getting them off Texas roadways,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Holiday celebrations create the increased potential for drinking and driving incidents, and we urge Texans to designate a sober driver or find alternative transportation if they plan to drink.”

During the Christmas/New Year holiday enforcement effort last year, DPS troopers made 1,505 DWI arrests. DPS enforcement also resulted in 24,928 speeding citations, 2,997 seat belt/child safety seat citations, in addition to 1,078 fugitive arrests, and 797 felony arrests during the enforcement period. A Texas Department of Transportation grant allows increased patrols in high-risk locations during the times when alcohol-related crashes are most frequent.

DPS offers the following additional tips for safe travel during the holidays:

• Don’t drink and drive. Designate a driver or take a cab.
• Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction areas and heavy traffic.
• Eliminate distractions, including the use of mobile devices.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle – it’s the law.
• Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks that are stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated – it’s the law.
• Don’t drive fatigued.
• Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before your trip begins.