MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Troop F Headquarters - 2920 North Shamrock Road - Jefferson City, MO 65102
NEWS RELEASE
For further information please contact:
Sergeant Scott B. White
573-751-1000
F170703
July 12, 2017
EMPHASIS:
BWI Sobriety Checkpoint To Be Conducted At Lake Of The Ozarks
Captain Michael A. Turner, commanding officer of Troop F, Jefferson City, announces that a BWI sobriety checkpoint will be conducted on Lake of the Ozarks sometime in August.
According to the most recent 2016 U.S. Coast Guard recreational boating crash statistics, alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating crashes.
Boaters who come across a checkpoint on the water may be stopped. Officers will keep the contact brief with the operator and perform a basic safety check of the boat’s equipment. If the officer suspects the operator to be under the influence of intoxicants and/or drugs, they will be asked to submit to a field sobriety test. All efforts will be made to keep the process as brief as possible. The Missouri State Highway Patrol appreciates the public’s cooperation.
“Operating a boat while impaired is just as dangerous -- and just as illegal -- as driving a car while impaired," stated Captain Turner. "To ensure the safety for all people on the water, boaters should designate a sober operator for their vessel anytime their plans include alcohol.”
Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!
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