The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be out in force during the Thanksgiving holiday.
The patrol will participate in Operation C.A.R.E (Combined Accident
Reduction Effort). As part of this operation, all available officers will be assigned to Missouri’s roadways to enforce traffic laws, especially those related to drunk driving, speeding and seat belt use. Troopers will also be assisting motorists as needed. The counting period for the 2009 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m. Wednesday until 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
During the 2008 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 14 persons were killed and
another 634 were injured in 1,736 traffic crashes.
“I encourage everyone who is traveling this Thanksgiving holiday to make
safety part of their plans,” said Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent
of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “I urge you to obey all traffic laws.
Wear your seat belt, pay attention, obey the speed limit and don’t drink
and drive. On behalf of the employees of the Missouri State Highway Patrol
I wish you a healthy and happy Thanksgiving.”
Motorists are reminded of the highway patrol’s emergency assistance number
800-525-5555 (or *55 on a cellular phone). The emergency assistance
number should be used to report traffic crashes, crimes being committed or
other emergencies on Missouri’s highways. When you dial this number
anywhere in the state, it rings directly into the closest patrol headquarters.