Law enforcement highlight ways to celebrate the new year safely
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
As many plan to celebrate New Year's Eve, law enforcement in Mid-Missouri are reminding those going out to be safe.
Sgt. Kyle Green of the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop F says people should arrange their sober rides as soon as possible.
"We expect quite a few people to go out this evening, whether it be to a party or other type of event, and many of those people will be drinking," Sgt. Green said. "So all we ask is, that as of right now, you've got plenty of time to make arrangements for a sober drive home this evening. Whether that is a friend, a family member, a ride-sharing service, take care of it now."
During the 2023-2024 New Year's Eve holiday travel period conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were 821 traffic crashes and nine fatalities statewide.
Jon Nelson, a State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer for MODOT, shares the importance of wearing a seatbelt if hitting the roads tonight.
"Make sure you're wearing that seatbelt," Nelsons said. "You know, if you are in a crash, the best line of defense you're going to have is to be buckled up and the data proves that out every single year."
Ringing the new year with the bang of fireworks is illegal in Columbia city limits, according to city ordinance. Using any sort of fireworks within the city could result in a misdemeanor.
According to Columbia's online dispatch log, between Dec. 31, 2023, and Jan. 1, 2024, the Police responded to eight calls for fireworks within city limits.
Sarah Yoro-Massad of the Columbia Police Department said in a statement that the department will be patrolling the streets tonight.
"CPD officers will be out patrolling on New Year’s Eve to ensure public safety. This includes enforcement of the city’s fireworks ordinance. We encourage all residents and visitors to plan ahead, be aware of your surroundings, and celebrate responsibly."
Jefferson City police said in a news release there will be an increase in patrols throughout the weekend.
"The Jefferson City Police Department is committed to making our community safer by reminding everyone that impaired driving is a serious crime with potentially devastating consequences," the department spokesman said in the release.
One Missouri company is offering a safe and free ride home using ride-share app, Lyft.
Breakthru Beverage Missouri and Absolut Vodka are offering 500 free rides across Missouri. The program is only offered in Columbia, Springfield, Kansas City and Saint Louis.
Rides are offered through Safe Home After Every Occasion.
Users with the code BBGMONYE24. It is only valid for rides from 2 p.m. on Tuesday through 2 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 1.
Check back for updates.
