As Missourians prepare to travel and take to the water for the unofficial start of summer, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging the public to prioritize safety during the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
The patrol's official holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Friday and ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday. During this time, every available trooper will be patrolling the roads and waterways to enforce state laws and assist those in need. On the state's highways, troopers will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort), focusing heavily on hazardous moving violations, speeding and impaired driving.
During the 2025 Memorial Day weekend, there were 868 vehicle crashes statewide, resulting in 356 injuries and four fatalities. Troopers also made 81 arrests for driving while intoxicated. On the water, there were three boating crashes reported last year, with no injuries, fatalities or arrests for boating while intoxicated.
Due to ongoing road construction across the state, officials encourage travelers to plan ahead by using the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Traveler Information Map. The map, available at traveler.modot.org or as a free mobile app, provides up-to-date information on road closures, delays, active construction zones and alternative routes.
Drivers and boat operators are reminded to be courteous, wear seat belts in vehicles, use life jackets near or in the water, and designate a sober driver if their holiday celebration includes intoxicating substances.
Anyone witnessing criminal activity or experiencing an emergency on the highway or water is encouraged to call the patrol's emergency report line at 800-525-5555 or dial *55 on a cellular phone.
