AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Public Safety is increasing patrols statewide through May 25 as part of its annual All-American Enforcement Campaign aimed at promoting seat belt use and reducing distracted driving ahead of the Memorial Day holiday.
The enforcement effort, conducted by the Texas Highway Patrol, is part of Operation CARE, which stands for Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort.
“Seat belts save lives — it’s that simple,” Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said in a statement. “Buckling up is one of the easiest decisions you can make to protect yourself and your loved ones every time you get on the road.”
During the 2025 enforcement campaign, DPS troopers issued more than 156,000 citations and warnings statewide, including nearly 9,800 speeding violations, more than 3,800 citations for driving without insurance and 902 felony and fugitive arrests.
DPS officials also reported more than 6,900 Move Over or Slow Down violations so far in 2026. Texas law requires drivers to either move out of the lane closest to emergency or service vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights activated or reduce speed by 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
Violations can result in fines up to $1,250, with steeper penalties possible for repeat offenses or crashes involving injury.
DPS urged drivers to avoid distractions, wear seat belts, slow down in hazardous conditions and never drive while impaired. The agency also encouraged motorists to monitor weather and road conditions before traveling during the holiday period.
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