AMARILLO, TEXAS -- More than 500 drivers were arrested for DWI's and over 12,000 speeding tickets were issued during the New Year's holiday last year. As the holiday approaches this year, the Texas Highway Patrol wants you to know they will be on the roads again this year.

In addition to their traditional increased patrols for the New Year's holiday, troopers will conduct focused DWI patrols across the state in high-risk locations. They will be out during the time when alcohol-related crashes are most frequent. The DWI patrols are made possible by a TxDOT grant targeting impaired drivers.

"We recommend that you designate a sober driver if you're planning to consume any alcohol. Even one alcoholic beverage, under the right conditions, can seriously impair your driving-and the safety of those around you," said David Baker, assistant director for the Texas Highway Patrol. "The holidays are no time to spend in jail, but we will arrest any driver who is impaired."

Along with the 502 drunk drivers arrested last year, and the 12,697 speeding tickets, troopers also issued 1,012 safety restraint violations.

If you are one of those planning to ring in the New Year with a few drinks, AAA Texas is once again offering members and non-members their Tipsy Tow program. Starting New Year's Eve at 6:00 p.m., drivers who feel they've had a little too much to drink, can call AAA's emergency roadside service program at 1-800-AAA-HELP (222-4357), and a tow truck will take them and their car home for free up to ten miles.

AAA says, that many motorists who have had too much to drink said one of the main reasons they didn't call a taxi is because they have to try and get their car the next day.