Troopers hope to keep crash numbers low across Missouri over July 4 holiday
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
AAA projects 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Fourth of July weekend.
This year’s projected number of travelers is a 5% increase compared to 2023, according to AAA.
But in Missouri, crashes are down 3% statewide so far in 2024 compared to last year, Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper Chase Fox said during a ride-along Wednesday. He says troopers want to stay under last year's grim figure and what happens this weekend is part of that.
"I think the distracted driving leads to a lot of our traffic crashes," Fox said as he patrolled in Boone County. "Obviously, it's not the only cause, but, just your standard traffic stuff. Just give yourself room around other vehicles. Slow down, just pay attention. Be alert. I think we all somewhat take driving for granted because we do it on a daily basis, and that's often the most dangerous thing that many of us do."
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, during the 2023 July 4 holiday period, Missouri experienced 1,505 traffic crashes resulting in 15 deaths and 646 injuries. Troopers made 125 arrests for driving while intoxicated. In 2023, there were 11 boating incidents, causing two injuries but no deaths. However, one person drowned during last year's Fourth of July holiday. Additionally, troopers made 10 arrests for boating while intoxicated over last year’s holiday weekend.
The 2024 July Fourth holiday counting period will be from 6 p.m. Wednesday through 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria said that in the past two years, more than 100 people have died in the month of July in Missouri in traffic crashes.
"Especially with the fourth,  you know, falling very close to the weekend like it is this year," Chabarria said. "You know, the main thing for drivers heading out on the roads, whether you're leaving for your trip or you're on your way back  in a few days, make sure you're leaving plenty of time to get to where you're going safely."
