NEWS RELEASE
For further information please contact: Capt. Christian T. Ricks
(573) 526-6115
Q11042
November 15, 2004
EMPHASIS: Patrol: Travel Safely During 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 2004 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 24, 2004, until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 28, 2004.
During the 2003 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 21 persons were killed and another 546 were injured in 1,365 traffic crashes. These statistics show that one person was killed or injured every 10.8 minutes during last year’s Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Over the past five years, 73 people have been killed and 3,388 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 to help the Patrol make this holiday weekend safe. Wear your seat belt, plan ahead, watch for changes in the traffic pattern, and obey the traffic laws.”