The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in collaboration with several local agencies, conducted an enhanced enforcement operation in El Paso County from October 16 to 18. The focus was on enforcing the state's Move Over or Slow Down and distracted driving laws. Nearly 100 violations were issued during this period.
The operation involved the El Paso Police Department, the El Paso Sheriff's Office, and the El Paso County Constable's office. Officers concentrated their efforts on reducing crashes in school zones and along major roads. In total, they issued 63 citations for cell phone use and 30 for Move Over or Slow Down violations.
Texas law requires drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching vehicles with activated emergency lights, including those belonging to law enforcement, fire services, EMS, TxDOT, tow trucks, and other specified vehicles. Drivers must either vacate the lane closest to these vehicles or slow down by 20 mph below the posted speed limit if unable to change lanes safely.
Violators of this law face fines up to $1,250 for a first offense. If bodily injury results from non-compliance, offenders can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which may lead to jail time and fines up to $4,000.
Distracted driving remains a significant concern in Texas. According to TxDOT data from 2023, nearly one in six crashes were due to distracted driving, resulting in 399 fatalities and over 2,790 serious injuries. Texting while driving is illegal statewide; additionally, any mobile device use is banned in school zones. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using mobile devices at all times while driving.
Fines for distracted driving violations can reach up to $200 plus court costs. DPS emphasizes the importance of keeping eyes on the road and minimizing distractions like cell phones. If necessary to use a mobile device while driving, drivers are advised to pull off the road entirely before doing so.
Since November 7, 2000, Texas has experienced at least one road fatality daily. Adhering to Move Over or Slow Down and distracted driving laws can help end this streak (#EndTheStreakTX).
Currently, DPS is working with TxDOT to distribute safety fliers alongside warnings issued by DPS Troopers as part of ongoing safety efforts.
