Col. Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds Missouri’s travelers to make smart choices for a safe Fourth of July holiday.
During the 2023 counting period, 15 people were killed and 646 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,505 traffic crashes. Troopers arrested 125 people for driving while intoxicated. In 2023, there were 11 boating crashes, which included two injuries. One person drowned during last year's July Fourth holiday. Troopers made 10 boating while intoxicated arrests.
The 2024 July Fourth holiday counting period will be from 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 3 through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 7.
All available troopers will patrol Missouri roadways and waterways to enforce traffic and boating laws and offer assistance as needed. The Highway Patrol will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) and Operation Dry Water over the Fourth of July holiday. Operation Dry Water specifically targets impaired vessel operators.
Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers and being courteous on the water. Never operate a vessel if you’ve consumed alcohol. Boaters need to be aware that it is illegal to discharge fireworks from a vessel, so they should leave all fireworks in a safe place on shore. Remember to share the waterway, watch your wake, and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Drivers and occupants are reminded to utilize life jackets.
Anyone needing assistance or who witnesses criminal activity while traveling on Missouri’s roadways or waterways can contact the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters by calling the Patrol Emergency Report Line at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. Motorists may call 1-888-275-6636 to check for road construction along their travel route.
Release courtesy of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
