Texas DPS Will Be Looking for These Violators Big Game Weekend

Texas Law Enforcement Cracks Down on Dangerous Driving During Big Game Weekend

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and all other law enforcement agencies statewide are stepping up patrols this weekend as fans gather to watch the Big Game. The weekend has historically seen a rise in drunk driving and reckless behavior on Texas roads, and officers are on high alert to keep everyone safe.

Increased Law Enforcement Presence

DPS Sergeant Mark Couch says, "the DPS is reminding everyone that safety always comes first, and we all need to do our part to keep roads safe." DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin says "Texans that get behind the wheel while impaired is never acceptable, and our Troopers will be out in full force to ensure everyone follows the law.”

From Saturday night through Sunday at midnight, DPS Troopers, local police departments, and sheriff’s deputies will be increasing enforcement efforts as part of the Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort (CARE) initiative.

Officers will be looking for:

• Drunk and impaired drivers
• Speeding and reckless driving
• Seatbelt violations
• Distracted driving, including texting while driving
• Drivers failing to move over for emergency vehicles

DWI Laws Carry Serious Consequences

Texas has strengthened its DWI laws in recent years, holding offenders accountable. If a drunk driver causes a fatal accident, they can now be required to pay child support for the victim’s children until they turn 18 or graduates from college.

In addition to criminal charges, DWI and DUI convictions come with heavy fines, license suspensions, and jail time, not to mention the emotional toll of taking an innocent life.

Key Safety Tips for the Big Game Weekend

DPS offers the following reminders to keep everyone safe:

• Plan for a sober ride, Use a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi if you plan to drink.
• Eliminate distractions, Put down your phone while driving; it’s illegal to text and drive in Texas.
• Move Over, Slow Down, Give space to emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and roadside assistance crews.
• Steer It, Clear It, If involved in a non-injury crash, move your vehicle out of traffic lanes when safe.
• Don’t drive drowsy, If you’re tired, pull over or switch drivers.
• Know who to call, Save Texas Roadside Assistance (1-800-525-5555) for emergencies.

West Texas Sees Spike in Fatal Crashes

Texas law enforcement is particularly concerned about seatbelt use. In the past year, West Texas has seen a significant increase in fatal crashes, many of which were due to drivers or passengers not wearing their seatbelts.

Sergeant Mark Couch with DPS confirms that Troopers will be focusing on seatbelt enforcement along with DUI and DWI violations. “We need everyone to do their part in keeping the roads safe,” Couch said.

See Something Suspicious? Report It.

With large gatherings happening across the state, DPS encourages Texans to stay vigilant. The iWatchTexas program allows residents to report suspicious activity anonymously by calling 844-643-2251, using the iWatch app, or visiting the iWatchTexas website.

Final Reminder: Don’t Risk It

Law enforcement across Texas is united in one goal, keeping roads safe this weekend. If you’re celebrating the Big Game, make smart choices: don’t drink and drive, buckle up, and stay alert.

Because in Texas, we all win when we all get home safely.