Texas DPS Launches 'Safe Bowl' Enforcement for Super Bowl Weekend

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 20:37 GMT by Odessa American, Texas
      Locales: Colorado, UNITED STATES

Texas DPS Launches Statewide High-Visibility Enforcement Campaign for Super Bowl Weekend

AUSTIN, TX (AP) - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced today a significant increase in patrol presence across the state, commencing immediately and extending through Monday, February 9th, 2026, in preparation for Super Bowl Sunday. The operation, dubbed "Safe Bowl," aims to proactively address potential safety hazards on Texas roadways, with a primary focus on impaired driving, speeding, and seatbelt compliance.

This year's increased enforcement isn't merely a continuation of standard Super Bowl weekend protocols; it represents a marked escalation in DPS strategy, responding to a concerning trend of traffic fatalities observed throughout 2025. Preliminary data released by the Texas Transportation Commission indicates a 7% rise in traffic-related deaths across the state last year, with distracted and impaired driving cited as leading contributing factors. The Super Bowl, traditionally a day of increased travel and social gatherings, historically sees a spike in these dangerous behaviors.

"Super Bowl Sunday represents a unique confluence of factors that heighten risk on our roads," stated DPS Director, Alana Reyes, during a press conference this morning. "We have increased travel volume as fans head to parties, combined with heightened emotions and, unfortunately, increased alcohol consumption. 'Safe Bowl' isn't just about writing tickets - it's about saving lives."

The "Safe Bowl" initiative will deploy troopers to high-traffic corridors, entertainment districts, and areas surrounding major Super Bowl viewing parties. Beyond visible patrol cars, DPS will be utilizing advanced technologies including aerial surveillance in key metropolitan areas to identify erratic driving patterns and quickly dispatch officers. Reyes confirmed that a network of sobriety checkpoints will also be strategically placed throughout the state, though specific locations will not be publicly disclosed to maintain operational effectiveness.

However, the initiative goes beyond just enforcement. The DPS is partnering with various organizations, including Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the Texas Hospitality Association, to promote responsible behavior. This collaboration includes public service announcements emphasizing the dangers of impaired driving, promoting designated driver programs, and encouraging the use of rideshare services. The Texas Hospitality Association is also offering incentives for establishments to promote responsible alcohol service practices.

"We're asking everyone to be proactive," Reyes added. "Plan your route, designate a sober driver before the festivities begin, and avoid distractions. If you see impaired driving, report it. A quick phone call could prevent a tragedy."

The focus on seatbelt compliance is also being amplified. Despite consistent messaging, Texas continues to lag behind national averages in seatbelt usage rates. DPS data reveals that unrestrained occupants are significantly more likely to suffer serious injury or fatality in a crash. Troopers will be diligently enforcing seatbelt laws for all vehicle occupants, with penalties including fines and court costs.

The DPS is also addressing the growing concern of aggressive driving and speeding, which contributed to a significant number of crashes in 2025. The increase in roadway construction projects across the state, coupled with the higher traffic volume expected this weekend, necessitates a heightened focus on maintaining safe speeds and providing ample space for other vehicles. Troopers will be specifically targeting drivers exceeding the speed limit and engaging in reckless driving behaviors.

Looking ahead, the DPS intends to analyze the data collected during the "Safe Bowl" operation to refine future enforcement strategies. Reyes indicated that the department is exploring the implementation of predictive policing models to identify high-risk areas and proactively deploy resources. The goal is to move beyond reactive enforcement and create a preventative safety net that reduces traffic fatalities and injuries throughout the year. The DPS website ([ https://www.dps.texas.gov/ ]) will be updated with real-time traffic information and safety tips throughout the weekend.