More state troopers will enforce traffic laws this week

Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers will be out in full force this Thanksgiving week enforcing traffic laws from Wednesday to Sunday.

The patrol increases the amount of visible troopers on the roads for most holidays in order to deter drivers from inattention and speeding.

“A crash can occur at any time when you’re not paying attention, not just on the holidays,” said Trooper Brandon Harris. “But on the holidays it’s also more important just because there’s more traffic.”

Throughout the weekend, troopers will be participating in Operation Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort, or C.A.R.E.

Troopers in mid-Missouri will also have special enforcement operations starting Wednesday. They’ll heavily target violations such as speeding, imprudent driving and aggressive driving.

“With the holidays coming up we want everybody to make it to their family safety and we want everybody to see their love ones,” Harris said.

According to the patrol, the only 100 percent survivable traffic crash is the one that never happens.

Troopers will also be available to help motorists in need of assistance.

Last Thanksgiving week, there were more than 400 crashes in which 116 people were hurt and 15 killed.

Troopers also arrested more than 100 people for driving while intoxicated.