MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Public Information and Education Division - PO Box 568 - Jefferson City, MO 65102


NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
573-526-6115
Q9102014
September 10, 2014

EMPHASIS: Fall Brings Changing Weather And Possible Flash Flooding

Colonel Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to remind the public that fall rains and changing weather patterns can result in driving hazards for motorists. Heavy rains cause flooding, which has proven to be extremely dangerous and could be fatal.
Drivers are reminded to stay alert while driving in areas known to flood. Barricades closing a roadway are there to protect you. Drivers must respect barriers or barricades put in place by MoDOT — it is extremely dangerous and a violation of state law to drive around them.
Never drive through fast-moving waters; even a small amount of fast-moving water can sweep a slow-moving vehicle off the roadway. If your vehicle becomes stuck in rising water, get out quickly and move to higher ground. For information regarding road closures please visit Missouri Department of Transportation’s (MoDOT) road condition map at the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website www.mshp.dps.mo.gov.
Motorists should remember that as summer turns to fall, temperatures may vary widely. The changing temperatures may cause fog to develop or result in moisture on roadways or bridge floors. Drivers need turn on their headlights, slow down, and be prepared to stop in foggy conditions.
Weather conditions requiring the use of windshield wipers are usually those that affect visibility. Motorists are reminded that state law requires them to turn on their vehicle’s headlights any time they are using the windshield wipers. The second it takes to turn on your vehicle’s headlights could make you more visible to other drivers and prevent a traffic crash.
Drivers should watch for farming equipment as farmers begin harvesting crops. Be patient, slow down, and give these pieces of equipment room on the road. Never attempt to pass a slow-moving farm implement on hills or curves. Remember: A farm implement moving to the right may be preparing for a wide turn, rather than allowing you to pass.
In support of "The Drive To ZERO Highway Deaths," the Patrol encourages motorists to protect themselves and their passengers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Watercraft operators should ensure that everyone in the vessel is wearing an approved life jacket. Click It 4 Life And Wear It!!




(###)