AUSTIN, Texas – As spring break and St. Patrick’s Day approach, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing patrols across the state to enhance road safety. The heightened enforcement, beginning this weekend, aims to deter dangerous driving behaviors and reduce traffic incidents during what officials anticipate will be a period of increased travel. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to protecting residents and visitors alike during these popular holiday periods.
From March 9th to March 17th, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will be conducting its annual Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day traffic enforcement campaign. This focused effort will target drivers engaging in risky behaviors, including speeding, driving without seatbelts, driving while intoxicated, and other traffic violations. The campaign is part of a broader, nationwide effort to improve road safety during peak travel times. According to DPS officials, the goal is not simply to issue citations, but to proactively prevent crashes and save lives.
Increased Patrols and Operation CARE
The increased presence of THP troopers will be visible across Texas highways and interstates. This enforcement surge is being conducted in conjunction with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). Operation CARE is a North American initiative designed to bolster officer visibility on major roadways during periods statistically associated with higher crash rates. By collecting and sharing traffic enforcement data, the program aims to raise awareness and promote collaborative efforts to reduce fatal and serious injury collisions.
“These are heavy traffic times as people gain out to celebrate, but safety must always come first,” stated Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. Rippee emphasized that troopers will be focused on preventing impaired driving, speeding, and other dangerous actions that jeopardize lives. “Our Troopers will be highly visible across the state, focused on preventing impaired driving, speeding and other dangerous behaviors that set lives at risk. We desire everyone to enjoy their time with family and friends — and make it home safely.”
Last Year’s Enforcement Results
Data from last year’s Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day enforcement period, covering March 9-17, 2025, reveals the scale of the THP’s efforts. DPS reported that over 93,232 citations and warnings were issued. This included more than 6,425 speeding violations, 516 citations related to seat belt and child seat usage, 2,483 violations for driving without insurance, and 552 arrests for felony offenses and outstanding warrants. These figures demonstrate the prevalence of traffic violations during these periods and the THP’s commitment to addressing them.
Focus Areas and Safety Reminders
The DPS is specifically urging drivers to prioritize safety by adhering to several key guidelines. These include always driving sober, obeying posted speed limits, ensuring all occupants are properly buckled up, and eliminating distractions behind the wheel. Distracted driving, encompassing activities like texting or using a mobile phone, remains a significant contributor to traffic accidents. The DPS also reminds motorists to be vigilant for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in areas frequented by spring break revelers.
Beyond enforcement, the DPS is actively promoting public awareness through educational campaigns. These initiatives aim to inform drivers about the risks associated with dangerous driving behaviors and encourage responsible decision-making. The department has created a public service announcement specifically for spring break, which is being disseminated across various social media platforms. This proactive approach underscores the DPS’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety on Texas roadways.
Operation CARE: A North American Effort
Operation CARE extends beyond the borders of Texas, encompassing a collaborative effort across the United States and Canada. The IACP initiative leverages data sharing and coordinated enforcement strategies to address traffic safety concerns on a continental scale. By increasing officer presence and focusing on high-risk areas, Operation CARE aims to reduce crashes and save lives throughout North America. The program’s success relies on the participation of law enforcement agencies from various jurisdictions, working together to achieve a common goal.
The Texas DPS’s increased enforcement efforts are a critical component of Operation CARE, contributing to the broader objective of enhancing road safety during a period of heightened travel activity. By targeting dangerous driving behaviors and promoting responsible decision-making, the department seeks to ensure that everyone can enjoy their spring break and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations safely. The ongoing campaign will continue throughout the designated period, with troopers maintaining a visible presence on Texas roads.
Looking Ahead
The DPS will continue to monitor traffic conditions and adjust enforcement strategies as needed throughout the Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day period. Officials encourage drivers to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, and make responsible choices to ensure a safe holiday for all. The department’s commitment to road safety extends beyond these specific campaigns, with ongoing efforts to reduce crashes and save lives throughout the year. The next update on the campaign’s effectiveness is expected following the conclusion of the enforcement period on March 17th, when DPS will release preliminary data on citations issued and traffic incidents reported.
We encourage readers to share this information with friends and family and to contribute to the conversation about road safety in the comments below. Your feedback and experiences are valuable as we work together to create safer roadways for everyone.
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