NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Capt. Christian T. Ricks

(573) 526-6115

Q11052

November 15, 2005

EMPHASIS: Patrol: Have A Happy, Safe Thanksgiving Holiday



The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds motorists that wearing a seat belt can save your life. As the holiday season approaches, many Missourians are making plans to travel. Thanksgiving weekend is a time for great food, football, and family. If you will be traveling this holiday, please remember to observe the traffic laws and buckle up. Take the time to make sure your car is in good condition before beginning your trip. It is also important that you are well rested before you start driving.



The Patrol will participate in Operation C.A.R.E (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) during this period. As part of this operation, all available officers will be assigned to Missouri’s roadways to enforce traffic laws, especially those related to drunk driving, speeding, and seat belt use. Troopers will also be assisting motorists as needed. The counting period for the 2005 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 23, 2005, until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 27, 2005.



During the 2004 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 13 persons were killed and another 578 were injured in 1,776 traffic crashes. These statistics show that one person was killed or injured every 10.4 minutes during last year’s Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Over the past five years, 77 people have been killed and 3,314 have been injured in traffic crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday.



Motorists are reminded of two toll-free phone numbers: Missouri’s Road Condition Report 1-800-222-6400 (Jefferson City area call 573-526-8828) and the Highway Patrol’s Emergency Assistance number 1-800-525-5555 (or *55 on a cellular phone). The emergency assistance number should be used to report traffic crashes, crimes being committed, or other emergencies on Missouri’s highways. When you dial this number anywhere in the state, it rings directly into the closest Patrol headquarters.



“Your family will be thankful when you arrive safely,” said Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “I urge you wear your seat belt, obey the traffic laws, and if you see emergency personnel on the side of the road, with their lights flashing, move over into the next lane or slow down. Help the Patrol make this holiday weekend safe.”