On May 14, 2025, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), in collaboration with law enforcement agencies from Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, conducted a significant multi-state traffic enforcement operation.
The primary goal? To ensure drivers are aware of and follow Texas’ Move Over, Slow Down law—a law designed to protect emergency responders working on the side of the road.
Understanding the Move Over, Slow Down Law
If you weren’t already familiar with this law, it’s important to note that Texas drivers are required to change lanes or slow down when approaching any vehicle with its emergency lights flashing.
This includes law enforcement, fire trucks, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles, and tow trucks. The law aims to ensure the safety of first responders, as well as other drivers who may be in the area.
Successful Operation and Impressive Results
On May 14, Texas DPS, along with the agencies from neighboring states, took part in a coordinated 12-hour operation focused on enforcing this law. The results were both eye-opening and impactful.
Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee praised the operation, saying, “This multi-state enforcement effort was a tremendous success. Working alongside our neighboring agencies amplified our impact and helped drive home a critical message: when you see flashing lights, move over or slow down. Together, we made our roads safer—not just for first responders but for every driver traveling through our states.”
Here’s a breakdown of the key stats from the operation:
- 7,687 vehicles were stopped in total.
- 1,326 drivers were pulled over for violating the Move Over, Slow Down law.
- 1,013 warnings and 580 citations were issued.
- Over 642 speeding violations were noted.
- 114 motorist assists were provided.
- 79 seatbelt citations were issued.
- 33 warrants were served.
- 7 criminal apprehensions were made.
Why This Matters
The Move Over, Slow Down law is more than just a traffic rule; it’s a lifesaver. Every year, first responders are injured or killed while performing their duties on the side of the road. With this operation, the aim was to not only educate drivers but also remind them of the serious consequences of ignoring flashing emergency lights.
This successful enforcement operation is a reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers must take the necessary precautions to protect those who work tirelessly to keep our roads safe.