HPD increasing patrols along North Loop to help reduce road rage, reckless driving

HOUSTON, Texas – Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Houston Police Department Chief Noe Diaz say they’re stepping up efforts to crack down on dangerous driving again, and this time, they’re focusing on one of the busiest stretches of the city.

Starting Thursday, HPD is increasing patrols along the I-610 North Loop from I-10 West to I-10 East. Drivers can expect more traffic stops and zero tolerance for speeding, road rage and aggressive driving.

“It’s an effort to make our streets and highways safer,” Mayor Whitmire said, noting the operation will focus heavily on the West Loop from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

City officials say this is a targeted enforcement plan similar to the mayor’s earlier initiative launched this year. The renewed push comes as data continues to show troubling trends on Texas roads.

In 2024 alone, the state reported 73 road rage-related shootings, leaving 26 people dead and injuring 53 others.

With holiday travel also ramping up, officials are bracing for another seasonal danger: drunk driving.

During last year’s holiday period, Texas recorded more than 2,000 drunk driving crashes. Ninety-six people were killed, and 201 were seriously injured.

In response, TxDOT is rolling out its statewide “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign, which launches Tuesday and runs through New Year’s Day. The agency is urging drivers to plan ahead, use rideshare or stay put if they’ve been drinking.

HPD is also reminding the public to report aggressive or threatening behavior on the road by calling 911.