The 2023 New Year’s holiday counting period week begins this Friday evening at 6 o’clock

No sooner than a significant holiday driving period has ended than another one is ready to begin. The 2023 New Year’s holiday counting period week begins this Friday evening at 6 o’clock and will end at 11:59 p.m. on Monday. During the 2022 New Year’s period, one person was killed and 331 injured in 1,045 traffic crashes in Missouri.
If your plans to welcome the new year include alcohol, please designate a sober driver or utilize a ride-share service or taxi to ensure you arrive home safely. The roadway is no place for a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you plan to drive this New Year’s, remember to buckle up and make sure all your passengers do the same. Pay attention, obey all traffic laws, and when in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Be sure to use your turn signal to communicate your intentions. Remember: The posted speed limit reflects the roadway’s classification and is not a suggestion! Download the MoDOT Traveler Information app to your smartphone, and check road conditions before you travel. Allow extra time during inclement weather or consider staying home. Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on.
The public is encouraged to call the Patrol’s Emergency Assistance Number (800) 525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency. These emergency numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. We’re here to help. Too many people die in traffic crashes each year in Missouri. The choices you make when you’re behind the wheel matter. Make good choices, so you’ll never have to say, “If I could just go back … ”