AUSTIN – As they travel Texas roadways during the Memorial Day weekend, motorists are urged to slow down or move over for stopped emergency vehicles including tow trucks, police cars and fire trucks.
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.
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.
“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 the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). “Please do your part to make sure that everyone has the chance to return home safely each night.”
TDLR licenses tow operators and tow companies in Texas, as well as driver education and driving safety courses.
About TDLR
TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 37 business and occupational licensing programs with almost 1,000,000 licensees across the state.
Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 7 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.