OFFICERS OFFER TIPS FOR LABOR DAY DRIVING

For many, Labor Day offers the final chance of summer to hit the road for a three-day weekend road trip to visit friends, family, or to just get away from it all.

For some, these trips result in tragedy.

In 1995, the Missouri Highway Patrol reported that 1,282 traffic crashes resulted in 14 deaths on Missouri roads and highways over the Labor Day weekend. On an average, 12 to 15 people are killed every year over the holiday.

It doesn't have to be this way.

Law enforcement officials say that if Missouri drivers would adopt basic driving practices many of the fatalities would never occur.

Representatives of the Cape Girardeau Police Department and the highway patrol agree on several points: give your complete attention to driving, obey the traffic laws, refrain from drinking and driving, and wear a seat belt.

"These are the most important things," said Capt. Clarence Greeno, director of publicity for the patrol. "If everyone would do these things, it would be amazing how low these numbers would go."

Greeno said that people need to make themselves aware that driving is a full-time job.

"People need to be aware of what they're doing and what those around them are doing," Greeno said. "Drive defensively."

He said one of the basic fundamentals is to allow ample time to reach the intended destination.

"A lot of people will begin their trips after a full day of work," Greeno said. "They want to cram as much fun and activity into the weekend as they can so they want to get there as quickly as they can.

"But people should take their time and follow the speed limit. There's no deadline."

Police Sgt. Carl Kinnison said that selecting safer routes is also a good idea.

"Typically, interstate highways are safer than two-lane," he said. "So, when planning, think about this and take advantage of interstate highways."

Kinnison had several suggestions for those planning trips next weekend. He said to make sure your automobile is in good condition, which includes checking brakes and tires.

He said drivers should never operate automobiles while they are tired.

"Fatigue is something that a lot of traffic safety advocates are bringing to public attention," Kinnison said. "We are finding that many accidents are caused because people are tired."