Latest news with #CrashAwarenessandReductionEffort
Yahoo
04-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
DPS steps up enforcement for annual distracted driving campaign
Apr. 4—AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase patrols beginning this weekend to ensure drivers stay focused and avoid distractions while driving. April 7 through April 14, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual Distracted Driving traffic enforcement campaign — looking for drivers who are texting, failing to Move Over or Slow down or otherwise distracted behind the wheel. "We've seen an alarming rise in incidents where our Troopers are being struck while working roadside — often due to distracted driving," DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin said in a news release. "Distracted driving is not just dangerous, it's deadly. For the safety of all Texans, we urge every driver to stay alert, put the phone down, and give the road your full attention." THP will increase enforcement as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), which runs nationwide from April 7 through April 14. Last year, during DPS' 2024 Distracted Driving enforcement efforts, there were more than 67,441 citations and warnings issued. This included over 4,815 speeding violations; 303 seat belt and child seat violations; 1,630 violations for driving without insurance; and 345 felony and fugitive arrests. To comply with Move Over or Slow Down, Texas law states that a driver must either: — Vacate the lane closest to the applicable vehicles stopped on the side of the road (if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction) or — Slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph, the driver must slow down to 5 mph) Violations of the law result in a misdemeanor that is punishable by a fine of up to $1,250. Subsequent offences can increase fines, and if the offence results in bodily injury, the penalty can be up to a state jail felony. DPS offers the following safety tips: — Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of 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 3,184 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.
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Yahoo
Virginia State Police continues Operation C.A.R.E for St. Patrick's Day
VIRGINIA () — Festivities celebrating Ireland's patron saint took place throughout the weekend. If you plan to join the fun on St. Patrick's Day, Virginia State Police (VSP) reminds the community not to drink and drive. Officials noted that drunk driving is not only deadly, but it can be costly. If caught while driving drunk some of the consequences include jail time, losing driving privileges and vehicle and paying up to $10,000 in attorney's fees, according to state police. Buckle up! Maryland State Police to increase patrols on highways, roads for St. Patrick's Day VSP said that in 2024, the weekend of St. Patrick's Day (March 15-18), 87 crashes involving alcohol happened across the Commonwealth. Troopers said six people died and 53 people were injured. 'The safety of our citizens is our top concern,' said Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police. 'We encourage everyone to take the necessary steps to ensure there is a sober driver during the holiday and every day. By working together, we can keep our roadways safe.' To prevent deadly crashes and injuries throughout St. Patrick's Day, VSP will participate in Operation C.A.R.E (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). The operation began at 12:01 a.m. on March 15 and will end at midnight on March 17. Person injured after tree falls on roadway in Potomac Until then, there will be an increase in state troopers across the highways and state police urge drivers to: Ensure you have a designated sober driver, a plan to use public transportation or a ride share service BEFORE any drinking begins. Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Be honest with yourself and know that even if you only plan on having one drink, you should plan on having a designated driver. Walking while intoxicated can also be deadly. Being under the influence can cause a lack of attention to surroundings and put pedestrians at risk of being hit by a vehicle. If you see a drunk driver on the road, pull over safely and dial #77 on a cell phone or call 911. If you know someone who has been drinking and is about to drive, take the keys and make arrangements to get them home safely. If you are driving, keep an eye out for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users on the roadways. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Yahoo
Texas DPS to increase enforcement for spring break, St. Patrick's Day
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase patrols on roads to ensure motorists drive responsibly this spring break and on St. Patrick's Day, the department announced. DPS said that from March 8-17, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual spring break and St. Patrick's Day traffic enforcement campaign — looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, drunk driving or committing other traffic violations. 'Spring break brings more travelers to Texas and making sure our roads are safe has to be a top priority,' Col. Freeman F. Martin said. 'Whether you're heading to the beach, lake or anywhere in between, make smart choices — don't drink and drive, buckle up and stay off your phone when you're behind the wheel. Let's work together so that we can all have a safe and enjoyable spring break.' THP will increase enforcement as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), which runs nationwide from March 8-17, DPS said. DPS said that last year, during the department's 2024 spring break and St. Patrick's Day enforcement efforts, there were 52,793 citations and warnings issued. This included over 16,360 speeding violations; 1,277 seat belt and child seat violations; 2,149 violations for driving without insurance; and 463 felony and fugitive arrests. DPS is offering the following safety tips: Don't drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol. Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of 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 2,194 'Move Over, Slow Down' violations. 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. On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted). Don't cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can't maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks. If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don't move your vehicle when it's safe to do so, it's against the law. Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License. Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure. 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. DPS is also reminding Texans about the iWatchTexas program, 'a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity within the community to help prevent dangerous attacks.' Tips can be reported via the website, the free iWatch iOS or Android mobile app, or by calling 844-643-2251. DPS said all reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video. In addition, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately, DPS added. Additionally, DPS reminds the public to be vigilant and remain on the lookout for any signs of possible human trafficking. With an increase in people on the road and in airports, there is an increased opportunity for the community to spot potential human trafficking activities and report them to law enforcement, DPS said. DPS said to be observant of others around you and take note of the following indicators of human trafficking: A person appears to be under the control of another person either physically (someone else controls the person's possessions, i.e., ID, money, phone) or psychologically (little to no eye contact, unable to speak for themselves, or unable to make simple decisions without approval). A person has little to no awareness of their surroundings including where they are or where they are headed. A person has untreated illness or infection, visible injuries, and appears malnourished or sleep deprived. A person's clothing is inappropriate for the weather or environment or is dressed in a manner that does not appear age-appropriate or makes them appear older. A person is being transported to and from work by their employer. A person lives where they work or works excessively long or unusual hours. A person's workplace has security measures that are unusual or excessive for the type of business (i.e., boarded or opaque windows, excessive security cameras). DPS said the presence of an indicator does not confirm an occurrence of human trafficking; however, the combination and context of indicators may indicate human trafficking pending law enforcement investigation, and you are encouraged to report it. 'If you see signs of human trafficking, call 911 immediately to report it and be ready to give as many details as possible. You can also make a report on iWatchTexas or by contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 'BeFree' to 233733,' DPS said. 'Remember, do not endanger yourself or others by intervening or confronting someone you suspect of engaging in human trafficking if it is not safe to do so,' DPS added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Yahoo
DPS increases enforcement for Spring Break, St. Patrick's Day
Mar. 7—AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase patrols on roads beginning this weekend to ensure motorists drive responsibly this Spring Break and St. Patrick's Day. March 8 through March 17, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual Spring Break and St. Patrick's Day traffic enforcement campaign — looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations, a news release said. "Spring break brings more travelers to Texas and making sure our roads are safe has to be a top priority," Colonel Freeman F. Martin said in the release. "Whether you're heading to the beach, lake or anywhere in between, make smart choices — don't drink and drive, buckle up and stay off your phone when you're behind the wheel. Let's work together so that we can all have a safe and enjoyable spring break." THP will increase enforcement as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), which runs nationwide from March 8 through March 17. Last year, during DPS' 2024 Spring Break and St. Patrick's Day enforcement efforts, there were more than 52,793 citations and warnings issued. This included over 16,360 speeding violations; 1,277 seat belt and child seat violations; 2,149 violations for driving without insurance; and 463 felony and fugitive arrests. DPS offers the following safety tips: — Don't drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol. — Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of 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 2,194 Move Over, Slow Down violations. — 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. — On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted). — Don't cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can't maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks. — If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don't move your vehicle when it's safe to do so, it's against the law. — Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License. — Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure. — 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. DPS would also like to remind Texans about the iWatchTexas program, a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity within the community to help prevent dangerous attacks. It's especially important to be vigilant as people gather for parades, festivals and other community events. Tips can be reported via the website, the free iWatch iOS or Android mobile app or by calling 844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video. Remember, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately. Additionally, DPS reminds the public to be vigilant and remain on the lookout for any signs of possible human trafficking. With an increase in people on the road and in airports, there is an increased opportunity for the community to spot potential human trafficking activities and report them to law enforcement. Be observant of others around you and take note of the following indicators of human trafficking: — A person appears to be under the control of another person either physically (someone else controls the person's possessions i.e., ID, money, phone) or psychologically (little to no eye contact, unable to speak for themselves or unable to make simple decisions without approval). — A person has little to no awareness of their surroundings including where they are or where they are headed. — A person has untreated illness or infection, visible injuries, appears malnourished or sleep deprived. — A person's clothing is inappropriate for the weather or environment or is dressed in a manner that does not appear age-appropriate or makes them appear older. — A person is being transported to and from work by their employer. — A person lives where they work or works excessively long or unusual hours. — A person's workplace has security measures that are unusual or excessive for the type of business (i.e., boarded or opaque windows, excessive security cameras). The presence of an indicator does not confirm an occurrence of human trafficking; however, the combination and context of indicators may indicate human trafficking pending law enforcement investigation and you are encouraged to report it. If you see signs of human trafficking, call 911 immediately to report it and be ready to give as many details as possible. You can also make a report on iWatchTexas or by contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text "BeFree" to 233733. Remember, do not endanger yourself or others by intervening or confronting someone you suspect of engaging in human trafficking if it is not safe to do so.
Yahoo
08-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Texas DPS urging driver safety for the Big Game weekend
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds football fans, and anyone out on the roads, to drive responsibly ahead of Super Bowl LIX this weekend. As the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles compete for the Lombardi Trophy on Feb. 9, DPS will be increasing enforcement efforts statewide to ensure everyone has a safe Super Bowl weekend. 'Getting behind the wheel when you're impaired is never okay,' said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. 'So, as you plan to enjoy the game this weekend with family and friends, it's important to include a safe and sober ride in those plans. Our Troopers will be out on the roads making sure people are following the laws, so we need you to also step up and make a responsible decision so everyone gets home safely—it's the only way we all win.' DPS Troopers will increase patrols throughout the day on Sunday, Feb. 9, from 12:01 a.m. until midnight as part of the nationwide CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) initiative. Troopers will be looking for drivers who violate the law, including those who are speeding, driving under the influence and people who are not wearing their seat belts. DPS offers the following tips for Super Bowl Sunday: Don't drink and drive. If you plan to have alcohol at a place other than your home, designate someone else to drive you or take alternate transportation. Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it's the law. 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. In December, Governor Greg Abbott released a Move Over, Slow Down PSA, which is available here. Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones. Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. Also, if you're using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road. If you can Steer It, Clear It. If you're involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes. On some highways, if you don't move your vehicle when it's safe to do so, it's against the law. Don't drive fatigued — allow plenty of time to reach your destination. Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of roadside assistance. The number can also be found on the back of Texas driver licenses. DPS also reminds Texans about the program, a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity within the community to help prevent dangerous attacks. It's especially important to be vigilant as people gather for large events. Tips can be reported via the website, the free iWatch iOS or Android mobile app or by calling 844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video. Remember, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
