As Texans gear up for Super Bowl festivities, Texas DPS wants you to know these safety tips to ensure a safe celebration.
TEXAS, USA — Texas Department of Public Safety says it will step up enforcement across the state Sunday, including in the San Antonio area, as fans gather to watch Super Bowl LX.
According to Texas DPS, increased patrols will run from 12:01 a.m. through midnight Sunday, Feb. 8, as part of the nationwide CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) initiative. Troopers will be on the lookout for impaired drivers, speeders and anyone not wearing a seat belt.
Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said the goal is to keep roadways safe while Texans enjoy the big game.
“DPS is rooting for a great game and safe roadways across Texas this Sunday,” Rippee said. “With increased enforcement and a strong Trooper presence statewide, our focus is on preventing impaired driving, speeding and other dangerous behaviors so everyone can enjoy the game and then make it home safely.”
DPS said troopers issued more than 1,300 citations and nearly 3,900 warnings during last year’s Super Bowl enforcement effort. Statewide, troopers also arrested 50 people for driving while intoxicated, along with making 31 felony arrests and 12 fugitive arrests.
With watch parties and travel expected to pick up around San Antonio, DPS is reminding drivers to plan ahead if alcohol is involved and to designate a sober driver or use alternate transportation.
DPS also emphasized the importance of buckling up everyone in the vehicle, slowing down in heavy traffic or construction zones and avoiding distractions behind the wheel.
Troopers also urge drivers to follow the state’s “Move Over or Slow Down” law for emergency vehicles and tow trucks stopped along roadways, and to clear traffic lanes after non-injury crashes if vehicles can be safely moved.
Additional safety tips from DPS include allowing extra travel time, avoiding driving while fatigued and staying alert in unfamiliar areas.
As crowds gather for Super Bowl celebrations, DPS is also encouraging Texans to remain vigilant and use the iWatchTexas program to report suspicious activity.