AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is ramping up enforcement efforts for Thanksgiving to ensure the safety of Texans on the roads. From Wednesday, Nov. 26, through Sunday, Dec. 1, Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Troopers will focus on traffic violations such as not wearing seat belts, driving while intoxicated, and speeding.
“Texas roads experience a major increase in traffic on both the days before and after the Thanksgiving holiday,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “We’re asking everyone to be mindful, whether you’re in a passenger vehicle or a commercial truck — stay alert, be patient, follow the law and focus on getting to your destination safely.”
The DPS participates annually in the nationwide Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) initiative during the Thanksgiving holiday. Last year, the enforcement period resulted in 45,770 warnings and citations, including 4,082 for speeding, 1,284 for driving without insurance, and 214 for seat belt and child seat violations. Additionally, there were 206 felony arrests, 162 DWI arrests, and 67 fugitive arrests, according to the DPS.
As part of its 90th anniversary celebration, DPS launched the Keeping Texas Safe coloring and activity book featuring K-9 Disco earlier this year. This holiday season, DPS has released a special Thanksgiving-themed coloring sheet with K-9 Disco, which includes safety reminders. The sheet can be downloaded from the DPS website and is intended to keep kids entertained while learning about safety during long road trips or family gatherings.