 Labor Day Enforcement Period Aimed at Making Texas Roads Safer
Last year more than 4,000 "no insurance" tickets were given out
This week theTexas Department of Public Safety (DPS) launched its annual "Labor Day" enforcement program, which is primarily focused on high-risk locations at times when alcohol-related crashes are most frequent. Last year during this effort DPS troopers made 1,879 DWI arrests and the increased enforcement also resulted in 24,779 speeding citations, 3,890 seat belt/child safety seat citations and 4,062 no insurance tickets.
While the legal penalties for driving under the influence are obviously significant, and carry the potential for even greater consequences such as loss of life, the laws related to driving without insurance are also severe. First time offenders are subject to a fine of up to $350, plus court costs, and may be assessed additional fees as authorized by Transportation Code Chapter 708.Repeat offenders face fines of up to $1,000 and a two (2) year driver license suspension, as well as possible impoundment of the car.
Unfortunately,more than 2.5 millionTexans drive without auto insurance coverage and Texas drivers now pay an estimated $1 billion a year to protect themselves from those who have no coverage. We look forward to continuing to work with policymakers to address this critical issue.
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