NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact: Capt. Christian T. Ricks

Q8042 (573) 526-6115



August 20, 2004

EMPHASIS: Labor Day Holiday



Labor Day weekend is fast approaching. Many families will plan one last special outing to mark the end of summer. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to expect a change in traffic patterns during the Labor Day weekend.



To help ensure everyone's safety, offer assistance, and enforce Missouri's traffic laws, the Highway Patrol will schedule every available officer to patrol the roadways. The Labor Day counting period will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, September 3, and end at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 6, 2004. The Patrol, along with local law enforcement, will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort).



Last year, 14 people were killed and 684 persons were injured in 1,487 traffic crashes occurring during the Labor Day holiday counting period. That is one person killed or injured every 6.7 minutes. Over the past five years (1999-2003), 65 persons were killed and 3,271 were injured in Labor Day holiday crashes.



"The Patrol wants everyone to enjoy this holiday weekend,” said Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent of the Patrol. "Let’s keep it safe. I urge drivers to buckle up, obey Missouri’s traffic laws, and drive sober. The worst part of a trooper's job is having to knock on someone's front door to inform them a member of their family has died in a traffic crash. Help 'Stop the Knock'."



Travelers needing assistance, or reporting a drunk or careless driver, illegal activity on the highways, or a stalled motorist can call the Patrol's Emergency Hotline at 1-800-525-5555 or, on a cellular phone, dial *55. To receive the latest road conditions for major Missouri highways, motorists may call the Patrol's Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-222-6400 or (573) 526-8828.



-30-