The Department of Public safety has announced that it will increase its DWI patrol for Christmas and New Year's thanks to a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation, DPS said in a news release.
Increased patrol numbers will be in place from Dec. 21 through Jan. 1, DPS said.
Troopers will focus DWI patrols in high-risk locations when alcohol-related crashes are most frequent. The increased number of troopers will target intoxicated drivers, DPS said.
"Drinking and driving are always a concern during holidays, and there is no doubt that increased enforcement by DPS and other law enforcement will help save lives," said DPS Director Steven McCraw.
Last year, the increased holiday enforcement made more than 1,100 DWI arrests, with 350 of those arrests being the direct result of increased DPS patrols. Last year's effort resulted in more than 15,000 speeding citations and 18,000 other citations, DPS said.
DPS has the following tips for safe holiday travel:
- Slow down - especially in bad weather, construction areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas.
- Eliminate distractions, and don't text while driving.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle - it's the law.
- 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 and EMS vehicles stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated - it's the law.
