MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop D Headquarters, 3131 East Kearney Street, Springfield, Missouri 65803


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Jason M. Pace
417-895-6868
D322013
December 14, 2013

EMPHASIS: Troop D Stresses The Importance Of Winter Weather Driving


Captain Juan Villanueva, commanding officer of Troop D, Springfield, continues to remind motorists to adjust their driving habits to the winter season. Officers continue to investigate numerous weather-related traffic crashes throughout the state, including nine fatalities in the past 24 hours. The Missouri State Highway Patrol encourages motorists to only travel in adverse weather, when it is absolutely necessary. If you find yourself out in winter weather, slow down and drive a speed that is appropriate for the conditions. Make sure to leave extra room between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Increase your following distance to five seconds or more. Also, when the temperature is near freezing, the roadway may look wet when in fact ice is forming and that transition is very dangerous.

Drivers: Take the time to clean snow and ice completely from your vehicle. Make sure the windows are completely cleared to ensure visibility. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on. It takes only a second to turn on your vehicle’s headlights. That second could make you more visible to other drivers and prevent a traffic crash.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is here to serve and protect. If you become stranded or see another vehicle stranded on the side of the road with passengers, please call the Missouri State Highway Patrol emergency number at 1-800-525-5555 or dial *55 on a cellular phone. These numbers ring at the nearest troop headquarters.

Captain Villanueva states, "Planning ahead and being a courteous driver are important every day. In winter driving conditions, this becomes crucial. Please slow down, pay attention, and wear your seat belt."

The Patrol encourages motorists to protect themselves from all types of hazardous drivers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Click It 4 Life!



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