Texas drivers hitting the road this Thanksgiving holiday will notice more state troopers on highways as authorities ramp up enforcement during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The Texas Department of Public Safety announced increased patrols from Wednesday through Sunday, with troopers specifically targeting speeders, intoxicated drivers, seat belt violations and those ignoring the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law.
“With Thanksgiving around the corner, we remind everyone to stay vigilant on the roads,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “There can be countless distractions this time of year, but your safety and the safety of others is what matters most. Take your time, avoid distractions and let’s ensure everyone arrives to their destination this holiday season.”
Thousands of Citations Expected
If last year’s numbers are any indication, many Texas drivers will be ending their holiday with more than just leftover turkey. During the 2023 Thanksgiving enforcement period, troopers issued a staggering 41,093 speeding citations and caught more than 11,500 motorists driving without insurance.
The holiday crackdown also resulted in nearly 600 felony arrests and dozens of DWI arrests across the state. Child safety was another concern, with 1,310 citations issued for seat belt and child seat violations.
Worried about getting pulled over? State officials say the simplest way to avoid a ticket is straightforward: obey traffic laws and practice common-sense safety measures.
Move Over or Pay Up
One law that officials are particularly focused on enforcing is the state’s Move Over, Slow Down requirement, which mandates that drivers either change lanes or reduce their speed when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility vehicles, Texas Department of Transportation vehicles or other roadside workers.
So far in 2024, troopers have already documented more than 9,284 violations of this law. The consequences can be serious — not just legally, but in terms of human safety.
“Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road,” the Department of Public Safety urged in its holiday enforcement announcement.
Safety First
With potentially hazardous weather conditions possible in some parts of the state during the holiday travel period, authorities are emphasizing that slowing down isn’t just good advice — it’s required by law when conditions warrant it.
The department also reminds drivers that everyone in a vehicle must be properly secured with seat belts, regardless of where they’re sitting.
Traveling with the whole family? Remember that Texas law requires all children under 8 years old, unless taller than 4 feet 9 inches, to be secured in an appropriate child safety seat.
As millions of Texans prepare to hit the highways this Thanksgiving, the message from law enforcement is clear: the best way to ensure a happy holiday is to arrive at your destination safely — and without a costly citation.
