Texas DPS reminds drivers to stay safe during holidays -

WICHITA FALLS, Texas (KAUZ) – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is reminding drivers to stay safe and vigilant behind the wheel as spring break progresses and Saint Patrick’s Day approaches.

The following safety tips were included in a press release from the organization for those planning to drive, in general or during the holidays:

Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2026, there have been more than 2,404 Move Over, Slow Down violations.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).
Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don’t move your vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.
Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained, and always ensure your cargo is secure.
Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas.

DPS also would like to remind Texans about the iWatchTexas program, which provides individuals with a non-emergency line of communication to confidentially report suspicious behavior.

Drivers are also encouraged to remain vigilant of possible human trafficking activities during this period of increased travel. DPS has provided a list of potential indicators to watch out for below:

A person appears to be under the control of another person either physically (someone else controls the person’s possessions i.e., ID, money, phone) or psychologically (little to no eye contact, unable to speak for themselves or unable to make simple decisions without approval).
A person has little to no awareness of their surroundings, including where they are or where they are headed.
A person has an untreated illness or infection, visible injuries, appears malnourished or sleep deprived.
A person’s clothing is inappropriate for the weather or environment or is dressed in a manner that does not appear age-appropriate or makes them appear older.
A person is being transported to and from work by their employer.
A person lives where they work or works excessively long or unusual hours.
A person’s workplace has security measures that are unusual or excessive for the type of business (i.e., boarded or opaque windows, excessive security cameras).

These indicators do not necessarily confirm trafficking, but may indicate it and should be reported. Those who notice these signs should not intervene or confront a suspect if it is not safe to do so, but are encouraged to call 911 with as many details as possible. They can also make a report by visiting iWatchTexas, contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or texting “BeFree” to 233733.

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