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
Q4413 (573) 526-6115

April 8, 2013
EMPHASIS: Patrol Announces New Safety Video "Gone Too Soon"

Colonel Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces a new traffic safety program for teenage and adult drivers entitled, “Gone Too Soon." Public information and education officers at each troop headquarters are available to schools, civic organizations, and churches to present a safety program which includes the showing of "Gone Too Soon." There is no cost for the program.

This new traffic safety program is appropriate for those ages 14 and older. The Patrol's Audio-Visual Unit created the new generation 15-minute video, which uses photographs, music, and testimonials from victims and family members. Roush-Fenway Racing driver Carl Edwards also speaks to the audience in the video. Mr. Edwards discusses the importance of paying attention when driving. The video focuses on risky behaviors behind the wheel, such as: drinking and driving, failure to use occupant restraints, inattentive driving, texting, and speeding.

The video is a collaborative effort between the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Ameren Missouri, Bloomsdale Excavating Co. Inc., Missouri Farm Bureau, Operation Lifesaver, and State Farm Insurance. It is being released in April in time for the message to be shared prior to high school proms. The timing also brings attention to the fact that April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and Alcohol Awareness Month.

"This moving video puts into perspective the dangers of risky behavior behind the wheel," said Colonel Replogle. "Families and communities are greatly affected when a loved one is 'Gone Too Soon' because of a traffic crash. I want to thank our partners in this project for helping us create a safety message that can make a difference and help us in our efforts to save lives."

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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