The Texas Department of Public Safety announced a statewide increase in highway patrols for the upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend. From September 4 through September 7, troopers will be deployed in greater numbers under Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE), a campaign aimed at curbing speeding, intoxicated driving, Move‑Over Slow‑Down violations and other traffic offenses.
Operation CARE targets dangerous driving habits
Operation CARE focuses on the most common causes of traffic crashes during holiday travel. Troopers will be looking for drivers who exceed posted speed limits, operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fail to move over for stopped emergency or utility vehicles, and those who neglect seat‑belt use or child‑restraint requirements. The campaign also emphasizes the importance of keeping mobile devices out of sight while driving and staying in the right lane except when passing.
Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee explained, “As Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, we know many Texans will be hitting the road to celebrate with family and friends. While our troopers will be out across the state working to keep our roads safe, we want to remind drivers to do their part on the road – slow down, eliminate distractions, drive sober, and buckle up. By making responsible choices, we can all close out the summer season safely.”
Past results show the impact of holiday enforcement
During the 2025 Labor Day campaign, Texas DPS issued more than 63,015 citations and warnings, including 5,233 for speeding, 1,594 for lack of insurance, and over 346 for missing seat belts or child restraints. Officers also made 211 DWI arrests and 250 felony arrests. So far in 2026, troopers have recorded more than 13,215 Move‑Over Slow‑Down violations, underscoring the continued need for heightened enforcement.
Practical safety tips for drivers
In addition to the increased patrol presence, the department offered several practical reminders for motorists:
- Avoid alcohol before getting behind the wheel.
- Yield or slow down for stopped emergency and utility vehicles.
- Always wear seat belts and ensure child restraints are properly installed.
- Reduce speed in poor weather or work zones.
- Keep mobile devices out of sight and hands while driving.
- Stay in the right lane except when passing.
- Give large trucks plenty of space and secure any cargo.
- Check vehicle condition before long trips.
Drivers can check current road conditions at Drive Texas. The public is also encouraged to use the iWatchTexas program to report suspicious activity ahead of community events by visiting the website, using the mobile app, or calling 844‑643‑2251. All tips are confidential; emergencies should still be reported to 9‑1‑1.
By combining increased trooper visibility with clear safety guidance, the Texas DPS aims to protect families traveling for the holiday and to reduce the number of preventable crashes that can mar the end of summer.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
