The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced today that they will increase DWI patrols during Spring Break. According to a statement from the DPS, the increased patrols will occur between March 8 and March 17, 2013.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced today that they will increase DWI patrols during Spring Break. According to a statement from the DPS, the increased patrols will occur between March 8 and March 17, 2013.
“Too frequently people choose to drink and drive during Spring Break, which is an extremely dangerous decision that often leads to senseless tragedy,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “Getting impaired drivers off the roads during Spring Break is a major priority for the department, and we also urge the public to make responsible decisions, such as designating a non-drinking driver or finding alternative transportation if they are impaired.”
The statement from DPS also highlighted more than 1,000 DWI arrests were made during last year's Spring Break enforcement period. DPS attributes 300 of those arrests to the increased patrols. The release stated, "DPS enforcement also resulted in more than 9,400 speeding citations, 1,500 seat belt/child safety seat tickets and 12,500 other citations. In addition, troopers made 545 fugitive arrests and 402 felony arrests during routine patrol operations."
DPS offers the following tips for safe travel during the Spring Break holiday:
Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas.
Eliminate distractions while driving, including the usage of mobile devices.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle – it's the law.
Don't drive fatigued, and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before your trip begins.
Slow down or move over for tow trucks and police, fire and EMS vehicles stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated – it's the law.
Avoid travel to Mexico. (U.S. citizens who do travel to Mexico should always check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest information regarding security issues in Mexico, and they should register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program by visiting http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_970.html.)
