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

Troop I Headquarters, P.O. Box 128, Rolla, Mo 65402


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Dan Crain
573-368-2345
December 14, 2013
I12C13

EMPHASIS: Troop I Encourages Safe Driving During Winter Weather Conditions


Captain Lee Ann H. Kenley, commanding officer of Troop I, would like to remind motorists to be extra cautious as south central Missouri endures more winter weather. Snow and icy conditions began to form on highways within the six county Troop I area at approximately 9 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2013. From then until approximately 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2013, Troop I officers have responded to 103 car crashes or vehicle slide offs and assisted 23 stranded motorists. Tragically one of these crashes resulted in the death of a teenager on U.S. 63 highway in Phelps County.
Captain Kenley would like to first encourage motorists to please stay off the highways unless absolutely necessary during inclement weather. If you must venture out, please keep these driving tips in mind. First, slow down and adjust your speed for the conditions of the road. By greatly increasing your following distance and reducing your speed, you will be better able to react to potentially dangerous situations. Remember that both time and location can result in changing road surface conditions. Many crashes occur after a driver has increased his or her speed after believing that highway conditions have improved, only to then strike a patch of ice or snow. Missouri law goes beyond requiring a driver to operate their vehicle at or below a specific speed limit. It also requires that a driver “exercise the highest degree of care” and for them to “operate their vehicle in a careful and prudent manner”.
Captain Kenley would further like to remind motorists to be properly prepared before heading out in winter weather. This requires that you first take the time to properly clean your windshield so that you have excellent visibility in every direction. It is also wise to make sure that you bring along essential supplies, such as food and water, in case you have the misfortune of being stuck in traffic for an extended period of time. Because of the increased potential for additional traffic tie-ups in winter weather conditions, Captain Kenley also encourages drivers to keep a close eye on fuel levels and to never let the gauge get very low.
Captain Kenly stated, “You can help take the stress out of winter driving by diligently watching weather reports and adjusting your travel plans accordingly”.
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!!!

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