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

Troop H Headquarters-3525 North Belt-St. Joseph, MO 64506


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Jacob P. Angle
(816)387-2345, ext. 3847
H81315
August 13, 2015

EMPHASIS: Missouri State Highway Patrol Joins I-80/I-35 Challenge


Captain James E. McDonald, commanding officer of Troop H, would like to inform the public of the upcoming I-80/I-35 Border-to-Border traffic safety initiative. This initiative focuses on drivers engaging in risky driving behavior and includes all 16 states where Interstate 35 and/or Interstate 80 pass through. On August 28-30, 2015, motorists will notice state troopers and other law enforcement officers out in full force. The troopers will be strictly enforcing all traffic laws and providing assistance to motorists when needed. This border-to-border traffic safety initiative was developed by the Iowa State Patrol and supported by the National Highway Safety Administration.
Both I-80 and I-35 have high volumes of traffic. In Missouri, this initiative will take place in the Troop H area on Interstate 35. From 2009-2013, 73 people were killed nationwide in traffic crashes during the month of August while traveling on I-35. Of the 73 killed nationwide, four were killed in crashes occurring on the portion of I-35 that runs through Missouri.
“Driving is a full-time job,” said Captain McDonald. “Please put your cell phone away, be a courteous driver, and pay attention when you’re on the road. Troopers are pleased to join the I-80/I-35 Border-to-Border initiative by providing additional officers on I-35.”
The I-80/I-35 Border-to-Border Traffic Safety Initiative coincides with the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over mobilization campaign. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over is a 20-day, high-visibility campaign designed to curb impaired driving and save lives. Preliminary statistics indicate drinking was involved in 5,109 traffic crashes resulting in 168 people being killed and 2,911 people being injured in Missouri in 2014.
“Intoxicated drivers are a danger on Missouri roadways. Please assist the Missouri State Highway Patrol in removing impaired drivers from our roadways by contacting us toll-free at 1-800-525-5555 or dialing *55 on a cellular phone,” said Captain McDonald.

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