Texas DPS Cracks Down 5 Laws You Must Follow This Holiday Season!

The Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) will be busy this holiday season. Texas DPS Troopers will be out on patrol beginning as early as Thursday, December 19, and continuing until January 2, 2024. The TDPS just wants to ensure our roads are safe.

My friend Sergeant Marc Couch, TDPS Public Information Officer, asked me to remind all of West Texas that if you are driving anywhere in the Lone Star State this holiday season, please drive safely, obey all laws, and pay attention to the traffic around you. Drive nice, be safe, and no road rage. Below are some of the violations you don't want to commit this holiday season. TDPS will be on the lookout for these specific violations.

Stay Safe This Holiday Season: Texas DPS to Crack Down on Road Safety

The holidays are here, and that means more travelers hitting the roads across Texas. Whether you're headed to visit family or just getting some last-minute shopping done, it’s important to stay safe and follow the rules of the road. The Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) is gearing up for a busy season, and Texas DPS Troopers will be on the lookout from Thursday, December 19, through January 2, 2024, ensuring everyone is driving safely.

Law Enforcement Out in Full Force

Expect to see more patrols on the streets of your town and highways across the Lone Star State. The TDPS isn’t working alone—local police and sheriff’s offices will also be stepping up their presence to keep our roads safe this holiday season.

Sergeant Marc Couch, TDPS Public Information Officer, urges drivers to be aware: “If you're driving anywhere in Texas this holiday season, remember to drive safely and obey all laws.” Sergeant Couch has a special request this year: "Drive nice, be safe, and avoid road rage. It's a simple rule that could save lives."

The 12 Days of Christmas Driving Dangers

Sergeant Couch also wants to remind everyone that the holiday season comes with its own set of road hazards. In the spirit of the Twelve Days of Christmas, there are 12 common factors that cause crashes on Texas roadways. "Help us #EndTheStreak by keeping these in mind and lowering your chances of being involved in a crash," said Couch.

As law enforcement works to keep the roads safe, it’s crucial that drivers pay attention to the most common violations. Here are the violations you don’t want to commit this holiday season:

1. Driving Under the Influence – Don’t drink and drive. Period.
2. Speeding – Always obey speed limits, especially in busy areas.
3. Distracted Driving – Put down your phone and focus on the road.
4. Failure to Wear a Seatbelt – It only takes a second, and it could save your life.
5. Ignoring the Move Over, Slow Down Law – Always slow down for emergency vehicles.

The Holidays Won’t Stop the Patrols

While many people are enjoying the holiday season, law enforcement will be working hard through Christmas and New Year’s. “Yes, troopers, police, and deputies will be working on Christmas and New Year’s,” says Sergeant Couch. This increased enforcement is meant to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

A Holiday Reminder from DPS Director Steven McCraw

DPS Director Steven McCraw encourages everyone to take a moment before getting behind the wheel: "Many of us will be traveling and attending holiday parties. As you spread holiday cheer, add safe driving to the top of your list. Please do your part, every time you get behind the wheel."

Stay Safe and #EndTheStreak

Let’s work together to make this holiday season a safe one for everyone on Texas roads. Avoid distractions, stay sober, and follow the law. The holidays should be about spending time with loved ones—not worrying about accidents or traffic violations.