In a tribute to lives impacted by impaired driving crashes, nearly 100 people joined together at the Missouri State Capitol yesterday in remembrance and resolve to prevent these needless tragedies.While fatalities in Missouri have decreased by 31 percent since 2005, impaired driving fatalities have remained steady, contributing to more than 30 percent of all fatalities. Over the past five years, 1,394 Missourians have been killed in impaired driving crashes.
A Christmas tree was lit in honor of the 281 lives lost last year as a result of impaired driving. Attendees were encouraged to take ornaments to help remember their loved ones.
During the ceremony, the Highway Patrol showed a new video called "Instant of Choice" that tells the story of two lives forever changed by an impaired driving crash. The video can be viewed in the Highway Patrol museum. A new website was also announced where you can leave tributes to friends and loved ones victimized by impaired driving.
Together, we remember. Together, we can make a difference by exercising personal responsibility and making the right choice - to drive sober.
