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
Q121911 (573) 526-6115

December 19, 2011
EMPHASIS: Happy New Year! Start 2012 Safely!

The end of this year is fast approaching, and many Missourians will make plans to bring in 2012 in a special way. The Missouri State Highway Patrol encourages everyone to make good decisions regarding their New Year’s celebration. If the weather is bad, allow extra time for traveling or be flexible with your plans. Staying home might be safer.
If you do plan to drive to a New Year’s gathering, remember to buckle up and obey all traffic laws. If your plans include alcohol, choose a designated driver. The roadway is no place for a driver who has been drinking. If you cause a traffic crash, your new year might bring getting arrested, court costs, medical bills, or jail time! If you kill or injure someone, you’ll pay a price for the rest of your life. No one wants to begin 2012 in jail. Be smart! Designate a sober driver or take a taxi.
During the New Year’s traffic crash counting period from 6 p.m., Friday, December 30, 2011 to 11:59 p.m. Monday, January 2, 2012, all available officers will be on the roadways. Last year, 869 traffic crashes occurred in Missouri over the New Year’s holiday weekend. In those crashes five people were killed and 331 were injured. One person was killed or injured every 13.9 minutes.
“The members and employees of the Missouri State Highway Patrol wish each of you a happy and safe beginning to 2012,” said Colonel Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Patrol.


(###)