News Release



For further information please contact:

Sergeant Larry W. Plunkett

(573) 840-9500

2005-12-02

Date: December 12, 2005



EMPHASIS: Troop E C.A.R.E. Lifesaver Weekend





Captain George Ridens, Commanding Officer of Troop E, announced the troop’s participation in the 2005 C.A.R.E. Lifesaver Weekend scheduled to begin just after midnight on Friday December 16, 2005 and ending at midnight on December 18, 2005. Troopers from across the area will be actively enforcing all traffic related statutes during the period with emphasis on seat belt use, aggressive driving, excessive speed, and driving while intoxicated.



The primary roadways for this operation will include, but will not be limited to: Interstates 55 and 57, U.S. 60, U.S. 61, U.S. 67. U.S. 412, MO 25, and MO 164. Troopers will be asked to maximize patrol visibility in these areas in an effort to reduce the number and severity of traffic crashes. Troop E has investigated 100 total traffic fatalities in 2005, a reduction of 8 from the same period last year, but acknowledging a noticeable increase in the last 45 days. Since November 1, 2005, twenty-seven people have been killed in traffic related crashes in the thirteen county area of Southeast Missouri.



Captain Ridens added, “Our goal is to make Missouri’s roadways as safe as possible, but we need the public’s help. Please allow plenty of time for your holiday travel, reduce your speed, allow plenty of distance between vehicles, wear your seat belts, and report any drivers who you feel may be impaired or a danger to the public.”



The public is encouraged to report any aggressive or impaired drivers as soon as possible by phoning the Patrol at 573-840-9500,1-800-525-5555, or *55 on your cellular phone. For more information concerning this matter or any other item concerning the Missouri State Highway Patrol, please contact Sergeant Larry W. Plunkett, Jr., Public Information and Education Officer for Troop E, at 573-840-9500.