DPS offers safe travel tips ahead of Memorial Day

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — For many people, Memorial Day marks a well-deserved three-day weekend of family fun.

It also means that a lot of people will be driving on the Coastal Bend highways.

DPS Sergeant Harold Mallory provided First Editon with information you need to know before hitting the road this weekend.

1. Please wear your seat belt. Seat belts save lives. Mallory said all of DPS' data points show that safety belts are a good way to increase survival rates in road accidents.

While you can't always control the actions of other drivers, taking these steps will help keep you safe on the roads. Always remember, “Don't break the law or get ticketed.”

2. Operation CARE: Accident awareness and reduction efforts More officers will be on the roads this weekend looking for violations that could lead to crashes that result in injuries or fatalities. Mallory said the extra officers will be looking for drivers who are driving while intoxicated, speeding, distracted and not wearing their seat belts.

3. iWatch Texas – Download the app or create a report here. When you're driving down the highway, you might see something suspicious, but you don't know what exactly is going on. Mallory gave the example of possible human trafficking cases that could be seen on the roads this Memorial Weekend.

Remember, this is an information line that can also be sent by text message, but it is not a replacement for 911 emergency services. If you have an emergency, please call police.

You can report it online at the link above or by calling 844-643-2251.

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