DPS Increases Patrols For July 4 Holiday

The Texas Highway Patrol is increasing patrols this July 4 holiday weekend to reduce traffic fatalities, officials said.

Troopers will be looking for people who are driving drunk, speeding or not wearing safety belts.

“If the thought of killing or injuring others on the road while you’re driving drunk is not enough to make you drive sober, just remember that our troopers will be looking to arrest you,” said Col. Thomas A. Davis Jr, director of the DPS, in a news release.

Last year during the extended holiday weekend (July 3-8), DPS troopers made 689 driving while intoxicated arrests and issued 10,445 speeding citations, officials said.

This year, from Friday to Sunday the Texas Highway Patrol will have all available troopers patrolling state highways.

Troopers are participating in national and statewide campaigns by law enforcement agencies to reduce fatalities during holiday weekends.

The DPS recommends designating a sober driver before the drinking starts and making sure the driver stays sober.

Here are some additional driving tips the DPS recommends for travelers:

Slow down, especially if weather and road conditions do not allow for the designated speed. Secure everyone in the vehicle properly, either with a safety belt or in the appropriate car seat or booster. Save phone calls for home or find a safe place to pull over to make your calls. Make sure you have enough gas in the fuel tank to make it to your destination. Drive with courtesy–do not participate in road rage behavior.