NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Capt. Christian T. Ricks

(573) 526-6115



May 17, 2006

EMPHASIS: Drive With C.A.R.E. During Memorial Day Holiday



The Missouri State Highway Patrol will participate again in Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Enforcement) during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Operation C.A.R.E. was formed in 1977 to deter the three key causes of highway fatalities: speeding, impaired driving, and failure to use occupant restraints.



“The Highway Patrol is proud to be part of Operation C.A.R.E.,” said Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent. “It is one of the longest running traffic safety initiatives in the nation. During Memorial Day weekend every available officer will be on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists. Together, we can make this holiday a safe one.”



Motorists in need of assistance or who want to report a crime should use the Highway Patrol's Highway Emergency number 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. For road condition reports, travelers can call 1-800-222-6400 to hear about road construction areas throughout the state.



Last year, 11 people died and 583 were injured in 1,182 traffic crashes over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. That is one person killed or injured every 7.9 minutes. Inattention, speeding, and failing to yield the right-of-way were the leading contributing factors to traffic crashes over the 2005 Memorial Day weekend. Motorists are encouraged to be safe and courteous drivers. This year's fatality counting period for the holiday weekend begins at 6 p.m. Friday, May 26, and ends at 11:59 p.m., Monday May 29, 2006. While troopers will focus their attention on seat belt use, use of child safety seats, drinking and driving, and speeding, motorists are reminded to obey all traffic laws.



"We expect a large number of drivers on the road this holiday," continued Colonel Stottlemyre. " We want everyone to enjoy their weekend plans, and encourage all to make safety a priority. Be aware of construction along your route, obey all of Missouri’s traffic laws, and buckle up. Arrive alive.”