So I was on the phone with my mom this morning and of course the first thing she said was, “So, what are your weekend plans? You know you need to be careful for the Fourth!”
Now with me being 22 years-old and all you would think she would have given up on worrying about what I’m doing on that particular weekend. But every year around this time I can expect to get that same phone call.
However, thinking about the large amount of traffic accidents and other fatalities that occur during this busy weekend, maybe having a worrisome, cautious mother may actually be a good thing. Last year there were a reported 82 minor injuries and 11 fatalities in Missouri during the Fourth of July weekend.
Many of these injuries were due to complete carelessness while driving. And with so many activities going on this weekend in the bigger cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, a lot of people are just anxious to hop in the car and go. Meanwhile, they are neglecting to take the necessary precautions when they are on the highway.
Not to worry though. Missouri Law Enforcement will be establishing sobriety check points until July 5, making sure to keep drunk drivers from harming others. And let’s not forget that the HEAT is still on. With the HEAT campaign in full effect, speeders, texters and those neglecting to wear their seat belts should be prepared to wipe the sweat from their brow, as they will be caught!
As a final word to the wise, make sure to be extra careful on the highways for the holiday. While you may be taking the appropriate measures to stay safe, others may not. And even if you’re grown, it might be a good idea to listen to your mom, at least this weekend.
