Texas DPS Issues Major Warning Before July 4 Holiday Weekend

The Texas Department of Public Safety is making it clear to everyone that they will be out in full force as America celebrates its 250th birthday. We’re all looking forward to the Independence Day holiday weekend that is here now, but There will be lots of law enforcement officers out making sure Texas stays safe while celebrating.

Texas DPS Launches Operation CARE

Texas DPS posted on their website about the new campaign running from July 2-5 called Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE).

Law enforcement expects significantly heavier holiday travel this year with it being our nation's 250th birthday. That means more people on the roads. Texas DPS will be specifically looking for people who are speeding, intoxicated, not complying with Texas’ Move Over, Slow Down law or violating other laws.

As someone who lost a family member to a drunk driver in the summertime, I can promise that is something you don't want to put your family through. Please, don't drink and drive. And follow all driving laws so you don't put yourself or others in danger.

READ MORE: Texas’ 42% DUI Death Toll — The Alarming Truth

Last Year's July 4 Enforcement Numbers

During last year's Fourth of July campaign there were 64,241 citations and warnings issued. That includes 5,042 for speeding; 1,632 for no insurance; and more than 398 for individuals without seat belts or child seat restraints. DPS also arrested 277 people on DWI charges and 281 people for other felony charges.

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Texas DPS Driving Safety Tips

When it comes to driver safety, DPS wants you to follow these rules:

• Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
• Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2026, there have been more than 8,828 Move Over, Slow Down violations.
• Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
• Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
• Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
• Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
• On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).
• Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
• If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don’t move your vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.
• Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure.
• Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
• Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas.

Fireworks Safety:

• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and flammable materials.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of an emergency.
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks; supervise older children closely.
• Light one firework at a time and never relight a “dud” firework.
• Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water before discarding them.