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. John J. Hotz
Q12172015-1 (573) 526-6115

December 17, 2015
EMPHASIS: MSHP: Welcome The New Year Safely!

The Missouri State Highway Patrol encourages everyone to make good decisions regarding their New Year’s celebration. A traffic crash would be an unfortunate way to begin 2016.

This year’s 102-hour counting period will be from 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 31, 2015, to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, January 3, 2016. Over the 2015 New Year’s 102-hour holiday counting period, there were 1,378 traffic crashes, which injured 504 people. There were 11 fatalities during the 2015 New Year’s holiday counting period.

Many Missourians plan special gatherings to bring in the New Year. If you’re driving to a New Year’s gathering, remember to buckle up and obey all traffic laws. As you make your way to the party, be a courteous driver. When in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Pay attention and use your turn signal to communicate your intentions to other drivers. The posted speed limit is not a suggestion and reflects the roadway’s classification. There’s no reason to speed—the party starts after you arrive safely.

Be aware of the weather forecast. If inclement weather is expected, allow extra time for traveling or be flexible with your plans. The Road Condition Report number is 1-888-275-6636. Depending on the weather, staying home might be your best option. If you do travel over the New Year’s holiday, remember to take the time to clean snow and ice completely from your vehicle. Making sure the windows are completely cleared increases visibility. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on. It takes only a second to turn on your vehicle’s headlights. That second could make you more visible to other drivers and prevent a traffic crash.

If your plans include alcohol, remember that nothing ruins a party like a DWI arrest or a drinking-related traffic crash on your way home. Designate a sober driver before the party starts. The roadway is no place for a driver who has been drinking. If you cause a traffic crash, your New Year might begin with being arrested, facing legal fees and medical bills, and perhaps jail time! You could lose your license and will have to face your family and friends. If you kill or injure someone, you’ll pay the price for the rest of your life. No one wants to begin 2016 in jail. Be smart! Designate a sober driver or take a taxi.

Approximately 63 percent of Missouri fatal crash victims who are required to be restrained are NOT at the time of the traffic crash. The Patrol urges motorists to protect themselves and their passengers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Join us in supporting the Drive To Zero Highway Deaths. Watercraft operators should ensure that everyone in the vessel is wearing an approved life jacket. Click It 4 Life And Wear It!!

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