NEWS RELEASE
For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
Q3091 (573) 526-6115

March 30, 2009
EMPHASIS: Patrol To Participate In Operation Orange

Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to make the public aware of National Work Zone Safety Awareness Week, April 6-10, 2009. During that week, the Patrol’s General Headquarters and any troop headquarters with outdoor lighting will use orange, rather than white lights. Operation Orange, as it is being called, is meant to remind motorists of the need to drive safely in highway work zones.

Drivers should pay special attention when approaching and driving through road construction areas. Preliminary 2008 statistics indicate 12 people were killed and 601 people were injured in 1,735 traffic crashes involving construction zones. The top two contributing factors for traffic crashes are speeding and inattention.

As warm weather approaches, the Missouri Department of Transportation will take advantage of warm, dry weather to repair Missouri’s roadways across the state. Those traveling regularly through Missouri are familiar with the orange road construction barrels, work zone signs, and flagmen. While travelers might be slightly inconvenienced by delays due to construction, remember: Those crews are improving the roadways for safer, easier travel.

Drivers should always obey the posted speed limits, especially in road construction areas. Failing to do so puts them and road crew personnel in danger. Due to narrowed lanes, drivers have little time to react and nowhere to drive in order to avoid a traffic crash if the vehicle in front of them stops suddenly.

“The Missouri State Highway Patrol will hold special enforcement projects focused on construction zone safety throughout 2009," said Colonel Keathley. "It's important that drivers obey the lower speed limits in construction zone areas and stay alert for workers and changes in traffic patterns."

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