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

Troop A, 504 SE Blue Parkway, Lee's Summit, MO 64063


NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Cpl. Bill Lowe
(816) 622-0800 ext. 273
A120906
December 23, 2009

EMPHASIS: Steer It And Clear It


Captain Robert L. Powell would like to remind everyone to drive safe during this busy holiday season. There will be more traffic on Missouri roadways during holiday periods, so take the necessary precautions before your travel begins. Anticipate delays, leave for your destination in plenty of time to meet your obligations, and carry items such as a flashlight, full tank of gas, blankets, flares, and a cell phone with a fully charged battery in case of vehicle problems.
If you are involved in a minor traffic crash, one of the first thoughts you might have is whether or not you should move your vehicle. The answer is yes. Ten years ago a state law took effect which requires vehicles involved in a minor, non-injury crashes to move off the traveled portion of the road. The Missouri Department of Transportation is using the 10-year anniversary to remind motorists to "Steer It and Clear It" to ensure minor traffic crashes don't turn into major pileups. For every minute a vehicle stops on the highway and blocks one lane of traffic, it backs up approaching traffic for four minutes.
Section 304.151 RSMo. states, "Except in the case of an accident resulting in the injury or death of any person, the driver of a vehicle which for any reason obstructs the regular flow of traffic on the roadway of any state highway shall make every reasonable effort to move the vehicle or have it moved so as not to block the regular flow of traffic." This law, known as the "Move It" law also helps reduce the chance of motorists being involved in secondary crashes, which cause 18 percent of fatalities in Missouri.
Captain Powell stated, "Troop A officers are working hard to help keep the roadways safe. Remember to do your part. I would like to remind motorists if you are involved in a minor traffic crash, without injuries, move your vehicle off the roadway to help keep traffic moving. To report any crash utilize *55 on a cellular phone or the Patrol's toll free number of 800-525-5555."
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