Eight people died in truck and car crashes in Missouri during the 78 hour period from December 29, 2006 through January 11, 2007. this included three fatalities that occurred on December 31, 2006 when a family from Menasha, WI died when their vehicle was struck by a tractor trailer. This is also the same number of fatalities that occurred in Missouri the previous year.
I realize that nothing can be done regarding those deaths, but hopefully by making people aware of the extent of the problem, Missouri drivers will pay special attention to driving safely next holiday season. You should know that the holiday season cam be especially dangerous.
According to the Missouri Highway Patrol during the New Years counting period which began December 29, 2006 at 11:59 p.m. and ended January 1, 2007, they investigated 247 vehicle crashes which included 109 injuries and 8 fatalities. The Missouri Highway Patrol also arrested 132 people for driving while intoxicated. The previous year, the Missouri Highway patrol investigated 220 traffic crashes involving 81 injuries and 8 deaths. Last year 151 people were arrested for driving while intoxicated.
The 8 fatalities during this holiday season, occurred in various parts of Missouri. Two occurred in the St. Louis area and were investigated by Troop C of the Missouri Highway Patrol, two occurred in the Rolla Missouri area and were investigated by Troop I, two occurred in the St. Joseph MO area and were investigated by Troop H, and 1 occurred in Lee’s summit and Springfield Mo areas and were investigated by troop A and D respectively.
The holidays should be a time to relax and be with family and friends. As you can see, it can also be a dangerous and tragic time on the roadways. My advice is to travel with caution while driving all of the time but be especially cautious during every holiday season, and of course don’t drink and drive.
