Texas DPS Increasing Patrols Statewide for Memorial Day All-American Enforcement

he Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is ramping up its presence on roadways across the state as part of its annual “All-American” enforcement campaign leading up to the Memorial Day holiday. The increased patrols by the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will run from Monday, May 12th, through Monday, May 26th.

The primary focus of this enforcement effort will be on ensuring drivers and passengers are wearing seat belts and promoting other safe driving practices to reduce the number of crashes and ultimately save lives.

“Our top priority is saving lives on Texas roads,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “As Memorial Day approaches, we’re stepping up enforcement to ensure drivers are buckled up, attentive and following the law. These efforts help protect families and prevent tragedy.”

The increased enforcement is part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). During last year’s “All-American” enforcement campaign in 2024, DPS troopers issued over 122,361 citations and warnings. This included more than 8,462 speeding violations, 601 seat belt violations, 2,752 violations for driving without insurance, and 579 felony and fugitive arrests.

DPS also reminded drivers of the importance of complying with the Move Over or Slow Down law. Texas law mandates that drivers must either:

Vacate the lane closest to emergency vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, tow trucks, utility service vehicles, and TxDOT vehicles stopped on the side of the road (if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction).
Slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit if unable to move over. If the speed limit is below 25 mph, drivers must slow down to 5 mph.

Violations of the Move Over or Slow Down law are misdemeanors punishable by fines up to $1,250. Subsequent offenses can lead to increased fines, and if the violation results in bodily injury, it can be a state jail felony.

DPS offers the following safety tips:

Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits using portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2025, there have been more than 4,485 Move Over, Slow Down violations. View Governor Greg Abbott’s Move Over or Slow Down PSA here.
Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you consume alcohol.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas

Remember to keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. You can always dial 1-800-525-5555 for any assistance when you’re traveling. That number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.