The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) plans to intensify its efforts to combat distracted driving by increasing patrols this weekend. The Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct the annual Distracted Driving Traffic Enforcement Campaign from April 7 to April 14, aimed at identifying drivers engaged in texting, failing to adhere to Move Over or Slow Down laws, or showing other forms of inattention.

"We’ve seen an alarming rise in incidents where our Troopers are being struck while working roadside—often due to distracted driving," said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. "Distracted driving is not just dangerous, it’s deadly. For the safety of all Texans, we urge every driver to stay alert, put the phone down, and give the road your full attention."

The THP will also partake in Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), a national initiative happening from April 7 to April 14. During last year’s 2024 Distracted Driving enforcement, DPS issued over 67,441 citations and warnings. These included more than 4,815 speeding violations, 303 seat belt and child seat violations, 1,630 instances of driving without insurance, and 345 felony and fugitive arrests.

Texas law requires adherence to Move Over or Slow Down rules, with penalties for non-compliance ranging up to a state jail felony if bodily injury results from the offense. A misdemeanor for violating the law can lead to a fine of up to $1,250, with increased fines for repeated offenses.

DPS has provided safety tips to assist drivers in adhering to these laws.