As the Trans-Pecos region gears up to welcome the New Year with grand celebrations, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is emphasizing the importance of road safety during this festive time. The Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will be conducting its annual traffic enforcement campaign to ensure a safe and joyous start to 2023 for all residents.
Starting December 22 and continuing through the New Year, THP officers will be out in full force, focusing on keeping the roads safe from speeding, seat belt violations, intoxicated driving, and other traffic infractions. This increased vigilance is a part of the THP’s commitment to reduce accidents and ensure everyone’s safety during this high-traffic holiday period.
DPS Director Steven McCraw urges revelers to celebrate responsibly: “New Year’s celebrations bring increased activity on our roads. We ask everyone to be particularly cautious, avoid driving under the influence, and adhere to road safety rules to ensure a safe and happy start to 2023.”
Last year’s enforcement period saw over 108,400 citations and warnings, a reminder of the critical need for such safety measures.
New Year Road Safety Tips from DPS:
- Plan Ahead if Drinking: If your celebration includes alcohol, ensure you have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service.
- Adhere to Move Over Laws: Slow down or move over for emergency vehicles, including tow trucks and TxDOT vehicles.
- Buckle Up: Seat belts save lives. Ensure every passenger is secured.
- Mind Your Speed: Be extra vigilant about speed limits, especially in unfamiliar areas or adverse weather conditions.
- Eliminate Distractions: Avoid using mobile devices while driving. Texas law prohibits texting unless the vehicle is stopped.
- Navigate Safely: If using GPS, let a passenger handle it or pull over to change your route.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Save the Texas Roadside Assistance number (1-800-525-5555) in your phone.
- Rest Well for Long Drives: Avoid driving when fatigued and take regular breaks on long journeys.
- Drive Defensively: Be alert to the actions of other drivers and prepared to react.
- Respect Truck Space: Keep a safe distance from large trucks and avoid cutting in front of them.
DPS also encourages vigilance against human trafficking. With increased holiday travel, there’s a higher chance to spot and report suspicious activities. If you see something concerning, report it to 911, iWatchTexas, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Director McCraw concludes, “Let’s all work together to ensure that the joy of the New Year isn’t marred by preventable accidents. Celebrate responsibly and make road safety a priority.”
The Big Bend Times wishes all its readers a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year. Let’s greet 2023 with a commitment to safety and care on the roads of our beautiful Trans-Pecos region!
