DPS urges safety over holiday weekend

The Texas Department of Public Safety is joining law enforcement efforts across the state on Memorial Day weekend to help keep Texas roadways safe.

From Friday through Monday, DPS troopers will be on the lookout for intoxicated drivers and drivers violating the speed limit, not wearing seat belts and other traffic laws.

“Memorial Day pays tribute to those who have given their lives to serve and protect our country, and what better way to honor them than to protect your fellow drivers by making safety a priority every time you get behind the wheel,” DPS Director Steven McCraw said. “By driving sober, wearing your seat belt, obeying traffic laws and using extra caution, you can help prevent senseless tragedies.”

DPS also supports the “Click It or Ticket” campaign, which runs through June 3. Now in its 16th year, “Click It or Ticket” encourages drivers and passengers to comply with state seat belt laws.

Drivers can take a variety of measures to enhance safety on the road this weekend, including:

■ Do not drink and drive. Make alternate travel plans if you are consuming alcohol.

■ Slow down–especially in bad weather, construction areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas.

■ Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits using a portable wireless device to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped.

■ Buckle up everyone in the vehicle—it’s the law.

■ Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated—it’s the law. Also, show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the road.

■ Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.

■ Don’t drive fatigued— allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

■ If you see a road hazard or if you observe anything suspicious, report it to the nearest law enforcement agency.

■ Before your trip begins, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and always double check to make sure all cargo is secure.

■ Monitor weather and road conditions. In the event of inclement weather, use extra caution on roadways and be aware of your surroundings. For road conditions in Texas, visit drivetexas.org.