The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will be increasing the number of troopers on the road from Monday, May 22, through Sunday, June 4, as part of the Intoxicated Driving Mobilization (IDM) – Specific Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP), according to a Friday press release. This program will run in conjunction with Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) May 22 thru May 29 for the Memorial Day holiday week.
DPS Troopers will be on the roads looking for drivers who are speeding, driving while intoxicated or not wearing their seat belts. The goal of the IDM STEP program is to reduce the number of DWI-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
DPS offers the following safety tips for people driving during the Memorial Day holiday:
- Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you’re consuming alcohol.
- Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, 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.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
- 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. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
- Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
- 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 a Texas Driver License.
- Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you’re traveling. For road conditions and closures, visit Drive Texas.
Additionally, DPS reminds everyone to be watchful of their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity through iWatchTexas.
The iWatchTexas program is a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity in communities in order to help prevent dangerous attacks. Everyone is urged to download the free iOS or Android mobile app if you haven’t done so already. Tips can be reported via the website, the 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.
