Highway Patrol plans southwest Missouri enforcement projects

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is planning a special enforcement effort to discourage driving while intoxicated in Vernon County, some time in September. Sobriety checkpoints also will be conducted in Polk, McDonald and Jasper counties, at undisclosed sites and times.

A press release from the patrol's Troop D, headquartered in Springfield, said that troopers assigned to the saturation will concentrate their efforts on highways which have been found to have a higher number of alcohol-related crashes and enforcement contacts. At the sobriety checkpoints, drivers will be stopped and will be asked to produce their driver's license and proof of insurance. Most drivers will not be asked to exit their vehicles.

In addition, the patrol will be conducting hazardous moving violations projects in Taney and Dallas counties. The primary goal of this project is to positively impact traffic problems by reducing crashes. The objectives are to heighten the awareness of the risks associated with impaired driving and increase compliance of the speed limit and seat belt laws, the patrol said.

On Labor Day weekend, troopers also will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort), as well as 10-Mile Trooper projects along Interstate 44, throughout the holiday weekend.

The public can contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol toll-free at (800) 525-5555 or by cellular phone at *55.