The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding travelers to exercise caution during this holiday season.
Drivers should check weather forecasts and make sure their vehicles are winterized, the patrol said. Allowing extra time to reach destinations will also prevent accidents.
The patrol said there were 936 traffic accidents during last year’s Christmas, including six fatalities. Another 382 were injured.
If faced with a traffic emergency, motorists can contact the patrol at 800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. This emergency number will ring into the nearest highway patrol headquarters. Motorists should use this number if their vehicle becomes disabled or they are involved in or witness a traffic crash or crime. They may also use the emergency number if they observe an erratic driver or pass a stranded motorist in need of assistance.
Motorists can expect to see more marked patrol vehicles on the roadways this holiday season and in the future. More than 100 previously unmarked vehicles now have decals on the side to help increase visibility and further reduce traffic violations.
“All available officers will be on the roadway during this holiday season,” said Col. James F. Keathley, superintendent of the patrol. “We hope you’ll help us reach our goal of less than 1,000 traffic fatalities this year and next. Please wear a seat belt, be courteous to other drivers, obey the speed limits, pay attention and refrain from drinking and driving.”