The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase patrols on roads beginning this weekend to ensure safe driving this spring break and St. Patrick’s Day. March 9-17, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day traffic enforcement campaign – looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations.
“These are heavy traffic times as people get out to celebrate, but safety must always come first,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Our Troopers will be highly visible across the state, focused on preventing impaired driving, speeding and other dangerous behaviors that put lives at risk. We want everyone to enjoy their time with family and friends — and make it home safely.”
THP will increase enforcement as part of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), which runs nationwide from March 9-17. Operation CARE is a North American traffic enforcement effort that aims to boost officer presence on interstates and highways across the United States and Canada during specific high-crash periods. By collecting and reporting traffic enforcement data from law enforcement agencies throughout North America, CARE helps raise awareness about efforts to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes.
Last year, during DPS’ 2025 Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day enforcement efforts, there were more than 93,232 citations and warnings issued. This included over 6,425 speeding violations; 516 seat belt and child seat violations; 2,483 violations for driving without insurance; and 552 felony and fugitive arrests.
DPS reminds drivers to always drive sober, obey posted speed limits, buckle up and eliminate distractions behind the wheel. Increased enforcement will continue statewide throughout the campaign period, with Troopers working to reduce crashes and save lives on Texas roads. Texans are encouraged to plan ahead, designate a sober driver and make responsible choices to help ensure a safe spring break and holiday for all.
DPS created a special spring break public service announcement, which is now being shared across all social media platforms. Click here to view.
Safety for Kids
DPS recently launched new coloring and activity pages for kids of all ages, each featuring DPS K-9 Disco. This month, DPS is releasing a special Spring Break-themed coloring sheet featuring safety reminders and tips. You can download this sheet – and check out the others – on the DPS website here.
