DRIVE SMART DRIVING SCHOOL C2830

Title: Texas DPS Boosts Enforcement for Labor Day Weekend: How You Can Stay Safe

Written by

Rodney Crawford

in

Published: August 28, 2025 (blog release; DPS announcement was dated August 27, 2025)
Source: Texas Department of Public Safety — DPS Increases Enforcement for Labor Day Texas Department of Public Safety+14Texas Department of Public Safety+14Facebook+14

What’s Happening?

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is rolling out heightened enforcement across the state during the Labor Day weekend, specifically from August 29 to September 1, as part of its annual Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE) Texas Department of Public Safety+15Texas Department of Public Safety+15Texas Department of Public Safety+15.

DPS Troopers will be especially vigilant on the roads, targeting:

This initiative aligns with DPS’s recently unveiled “90 Days of Safety” campaign—marking its 90th anniversary—which aims to empower Texans to partner with law enforcement in preserving community and roadway safety Texas Department of Public Safety+3Texas Department of Public Safety+3Texas Department of Public Safety+3.

By the Numbers: What Happened Last Year?

During last year’s Labor Day enforcement wave, Troopers issued:

Already in 2025, the DPS reports 9,617+ violations of the Move Over/Slow Down law—a startling indicator of how frequently this safety measure is being overlooked Texas Department of Public Safety+8Texas Department of Public Safety+8Texas Department of Public Safety+8.

Safety Tips for Every Motorist

The DPS urges all drivers to follow these best practices—not just over the long weekend but every day:

  • Don’t drink and drive. Make a plan for a sober ride home.
  • Obey the Move Over/Slow Down law when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or vehicles with emergency lights.
  • Seat belts save lives. Buckle up passengers every time.
  • Slow down during inclement weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas, or construction zones.
  • Avoid distractions. Texas law prohibits sending electronic messages while driving. Assign navigation tasks to a passenger instead.
  • Drive defensively. Expect the unexpected, especially on busy holiday roads.
  • Use left lanes for passing only. Keep slower traffic to the right as required by law.
  • Be cautious around large trucks. Don’t cut them off—braking rapidly in front of them can be dangerous.
  • Steer It, Clear It. If you’re in a non-injury crash and your vehicle is drivable, move it off the road to minimize hazards.
  • Store the Texas Roadside Assistance number (1‑800‑525‑5555) in your phone—it’s also on the back of your license.
  • Maintain your vehicle and secure any cargo.
  • Report road hazards or suspicious activity to the nearest law enforcement agency.
  • Check road and weather conditions using DriveTexas.org before and during travel Texas Department of Public Safety+7Texas Department of Public Safety+7Texas Department of Public Safety+7Texas Department of Public Safety.

Community Awareness: iWatchTexas Program

DPS also highlights the iWatchTexas initiative—a confidential reporting tool that lets Texans submit tips on suspicious activity in their communities via:

  • The iWatchTexas website
  • Mobile app (iOS or Android)
  • Phone: 844‑643‑2251

This program is especially relevant during large gatherings—parades, festivals, or community events—but is not for emergencies. In such situations, always call 911 Texas Department of Public Safety+7Texas Department of Public Safety+7Texas Department of Public Safety+7.

In Summary

As Texans gear up for the Labor Day weekend (August 29–September 1), the DPS is ramping up enforcement to deter dangerous driving and save lives. Whether you’re speeding, distracted, or improperly passing emergency vehicles—you stand to receive a citation.

But more importantly, you’re putting lives at risk—maybe even your own. Let’s do better:

  • Drive sober
  • Obey traffic laws
  • Enable safe arrivals

By taking these steps, everyone increases their odds of getting home safely.

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