Extra Troopers Hitting Texas Roads This Labor Day Weekend

Putting the pedal to the metal this holiday weekend may get you conversation with the police.

Texas DPS Increases Statewide Patrols Ahead of Labor Day Holiday Weekend

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is going to be out in full force this Labor Day weekend, expanding traffic enforcement operations across highways statewide. From September 4 through September 7, the agency will deploy additional state troopers as part of Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE).

Police Are on the Lookout for Specific Violations

The targeted enforcement initiative focuses on speeding, driving while intoxicated, cellphone distracted driving, seat belt non-compliance, and failure to follow the state's Move Over, Slow Down statute.

Focusing Enforcement on High-Risk Driving Behaviors

State enforcement records from prior holiday campaigns demonstrate the broad scope of these highway operations. During the 2025 Labor Day enforcement period, troopers logged over 63,015 total warnings and citations. That total included 5,233 speeding tickets, 1,594 citations for operating a vehicle without insurance, and more than 346 violations for failing to use seat belts or child safety restraints. Troopers also executed 211 arrests for driving while intoxicated alongside 250 felony arrests.

Move Over, Slow Down Initiative

Law enforcement attention remains focused on roadside safety laws. Statewide figures for 2026 show that troopers have already documented more than 13,215 citations for Move Over, Slow Down infractions, which require motorists to vacate the closest lane or reduce speed when approaching stopped emergency or utility vehicles displaying active warning lights.

Safety Guidelines for Holiday Travel

State officials strongly advise drivers to take preliminary precautions before setting out on highway trips:

Maintain Safe Operations: Refrain from operating vehicles under the influence, observe posted speed limits, particularly in construction or severe weather zones, and utilize the far-left lane exclusively for passing.

Protect First Responders: Give room to emergency personnel, tow trucks, and public utility units parked along shoulders.

Minimize Roadway Hazards: Give heavy commercial trucks ample space, inspect vehicle maintenance and cargo security prior to departure, and move minor, non-injury accidents out of active travel lanes when safe to do so.

Travelers can monitor active road conditions and highway closures in real time by consulting the Drive Texas tracking portal.

Non-Emergency Safety Reporting

In addition to traffic enforcement, DPS is reminding the public to utilize the confidential iWatchTexas platform to submit tips regarding non-emergency, suspicious activities observed prior to or during community events. Reports can be submitted online, through the mobile application, or by calling 844-643-2251. Time-sensitive emergencies should always be directed immediately to 911.