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: Sgt. Bill Lowe
(816) 622-0800 ext. 3159
A2012-50
December 19, 2012

EMPHASIS: Winter Driving -- Are You Prepared


Despite the mild temperatures we have been experiencing thus far in December, winter is upon us and the Missouri State Highway Patrol wants to remind everyone to take extra care when driving during inclement weather.

When the inclement weather hits, drivers need to adjust their driving to reach their destination safely. Slow down when driving on snow or on ice, and increase the following distance between you and other vehicles. Drivers have a responsibility to exercise the highest degree of care. Driving conditions can change rapidly as temperatures drop, so be aware of rain changing to ice or sleet. Utilize the Missouri Roadway Conditions Report (800-222-6400) before you leave to plan your route of travel.

Give yourself extra time, not only for your travel, but also to allow you to clear your entire vehicle from snow and ice before you leave. Emergencies cannot be predicted, but planning for them can help you if one should arise. Before you travel, make sure your car has been winterized and you have an ice scraper, tire chains, flashlight, battery booster cables, blankets, and a bag of sand placed in your trunk. If you become stranded or see another vehicle stranded on the side of the road with passengers, please call the Missouri State Highway Patrol emergency number at 1-800-525-5555 or dial *55 on a cellular phone. These numbers will contact the nearest troop headquarters.

Planning ahead and being a courteous driver are important every day. In winter driving conditions, this becomes crucial. Please, slow down, pay attention, and wear your seat belt. Of course, no matter how safely you drive, you can’t control other drivers. Thus, the Patrol encourages motorists to protect themselves from all types of hazardous drivers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Click It 4 Life!


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