State leaders urge drivers to stop speeding amid stay-at-home order

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

During a news conference Thursday, Gov. Mike Parson said speeding is increasing despite a statewide stay-at-home order and a drop in traffic.

Missouri Department of Transportation Director Patrick McKenna said statewide there is about a 40% decline in traffic. He also cited statistics for several cities, saying traffic was down 45% in St. Louis, 41% in Kansas City and 46% in Branson. McKenna also noted a 33% drop in rural Missouri.

Despite fewer vehicles on the roads, the Missouri State Highway Patrol says it has taken complaints about careless driving and racing.

"This is not the time to disregard the rules of the road. In fact, highway safety is more important now than ever," McKenna said. "In these trying times of the coronavirus pandemic, the emergency room is the last place you want to find yourself."

McKenna said that a recent test of a section of rural Interstate 70 revealed twice as many drivers were speeding over 80 miles per hour as opposed to this time last year.

"Just last week alone MoDOT vehicles were struck three times by drivers who were not paying attention to the task at hand," McKenna said.

Leaders said that the nicer weather and reduced traffic has allowed crews to continue work on construction projects.

"Spring also brings an increase in construction zone projects as mentioned by Director McKenna. Troopers will patrol those construction zones just as we always have and will be very mindful of the speeds of vehicles passing through there to ensure the safety of those workers," Colonel Eric Olson with the Missouri State Highway Patrol said.

Watch a replay of the governor's news conference below: