Texas DPS Offers Safety Tips For Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day

The Texas Department of Public Safety is urging the public to stay safe over the next few weeks during Spring Break and St. Patrick's Day. It's a busy month and DPS wants citizens to make responsible decisions and of course stay alert when driving.

In a press release, Texas DPS offered several tips for having a safe time on the roads this Spring. And if you follow these tips, you should be in pretty good shape.

• 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.

READ MORE: Texas Police Agencies Launch Drive Sober, No Regrets

• 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.

Another important safety tip? Be aware of your surroundings and if something seems off, or you see something that isn't right, make sure you say something to someone.