Drive Safe During Thanksgiving Week

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Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds everyone there may be an increase in traffic over the Thanksgiving holiday. If so, drivers should remain alert to changes along their normal route. Regardless of traffic patterns, safety should remain a priority.

Over the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday, 11 people were killed and 634 injured in 1,594 traffic crashes

Over the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday, 11 people were killed and 634 injured in 1,594 traffic crashes

“No matter how many vehicles are sharing the road, it’s important to be a courteous and attentive driver,” said Col. Olson. “This year’s Thanksgiving holiday weekend might look different from past year’s due to the pandemic. No matter how many vehicles are on the road, driving with the highest degree of care is everyone’s responsibility, and following all traffic laws is imperative.”

Drivers should make sure their vehicles are in good condition and that they are well rested before they start driving. Remember: There is never a reason to speed, drive aggressively, or drive impaired. “Every driver needs to pay attention,” said Col. Olson. “Driving is a full-time job. Please turn off your cell phone, drive sober, and remember to buckle up. We want everyone to have a safe Thanksgiving holiday.

The public is encouraged to call the Patrol’s Emergency Report Line (800) 525-5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency. These phone numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. If your celebration includes alcohol, designate someone else to drive whether you are in your boat or your car. Please don’t become a statistic.

The counting period for the 2020 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2020, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 29, 2020. Troopers will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E., enforcing all traffic laws, and available to assist the public. Over the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, 11 people were killed and 634 injured in 1,594 traffic crashes.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story