Austin — The Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will increase enforcement of seat belt and distracted driving laws as part of its annual All-American Enforcement Campaign running from May 11 through Memorial Day on May 25.
State troopers said the campaign will focus on improving roadway safety by targeting violations involving seat belts, speeding, distracted driving, and the state’s move-over, slow-down law.
“Seat belts save lives — it’s that simple,” THP Chief Bryan Rippee said in a statement. “Buckling up is one of the easiest decisions you can make to protect yourself and your loved ones every time you get on the road.”
Under Texas law, drivers on multi-lane roads must move out of the lane closest to emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights whenever possible. On two-lane roads, motorists are required to slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
Troopers said more than 6,900 citations have already been issued this year for violations of the move-over, slow-down law.
Officials also reminded drivers that Texas law prohibits the use of handheld wireless devices to read, write, or send electronic messages while driving unless the vehicle is stopped.
During last year’s enforcement campaign, authorities issued more than 156,000 tickets and warnings statewide. That included nearly 10,000 speeding citations, 3,876 violations for driving without insurance, and 780 seat belt-related offenses.
Troopers also reported making more than 900 felony and fugitive arrests during the previous campaign period.
