Large numbers of travelers are expected on Texas roads, which means that more breakdowns and traffic stops are likely as well. Drivers should pay attention to what’s happening around them and prepare to react quickly.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is urging motorists as they travel Texas roadways during the Memorial Day weekend, to slow down or move over for stopped emergency vehicles including tow trucks, police cars and fire trucks.
Texas DPS troopers will also be watching for drivers not following the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law.
Texas law requires drivers to slow down at least 20 miles per hour under the posted speed limit or, if able, to change lanes when they’re passing a first responder stopped on the road with their emergency lights activated.
“Tow trucks are emergency vehicles, and drivers should slow down or change lanes when tow trucks are stopped on the side of the road – just like drivers should slow down or change lanes when they see police cars or ambulances or fire trucks on the side of the road,” said Mike Arismendez, Jr., executive director for TDLR. “Please do your part to make sure that everyone has the chance to return home safely each night.”
DPS encourages drivers to follow these safety tips for Memorial Day weekend:
-Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
-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. Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
-Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
-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. Navigation devices should be operated by a passenger.
-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).
-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, not moving a vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.