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

Troop B Headquarters - 308 Pine Crest Drive - Macon, Missouri 63552


NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sergeant Brent J. Bernhardt
(660) 385-2132
B14015
January 8, 2014

EMPHASIS: Reduction In Traffic Fatalities In Troop B Area From 2012 To 2013


Captain James E. Wilt, commanding officer of Troop B, Macon, is pleased to announce the Troop B area, which consists of the 16 northeast counties of Missouri, experienced a sharp decline in traffic fatalities in 2013 when compared to 2012.
Preliminary totals indicate Troop B recorded 27 fatalities during 2013, which is a 29% decrease from the 38 fatalities that occurred in 2012. Preliminary statewide statistics indicate Missouri traffic deaths also dropped from 826 fatalities in 2012 to 744 fatalities in 2013. In addition, the total number of traffic crashes decreased statewide.
Of the 744 people who were killed in Missouri traffic crashes in 2013, approximately 63% of those required to use a seat belt or child restraint, were not restrained at the time of the crash.
"I am pleased about the reduction of traffic fatalities and crashes statewide and in the Troop B area," stated Captain Wilt. "Traffic fatalities are preventable. The Patrol urges motorists to do their part by driving safely and making sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing a seat belt. We are committed to further reducing the number of fatalities that occur on our highways."
The Patrol encourages motorists and watercraft operators to protect themselves by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint and everyone in the vessel is wearing an approved life jacket. Click It 4 Life and Wear It!!!

Note: The 2013 fatality traffic statistics in this news release could change if late deaths occur, or if other department report fatal traffic crashes after the news release was sent out.
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