Traffic collisions cost Missourians $5.6 billion annually - and our driving laws are behind the times in many ways | saferoads.org

Headlines are quick hits from media outlets from Missouri and around the world. Follow the headline link for the full story. The source of this headline says:

MISSOURI 2015 Fatalities: 869
10-Year Fatality Total: 10,006
Annual Economic Cost Due to Motor Vehicle Crashes: $5.560 Billion

Highway Safety Laws Needed in Missouri:
- Primary Enforcement Seat Belt Law (Front & Rear)
- Booster Seat Law Up to Age 8 and 57 Inches
- GDL [Graduated Driver's License] - Minimum Age 16 for Learner’s Permit
- GDL - Stronger Supervised Driving Requirement
- GDL - Stronger Nighttime Restriction
- GDL - Stronger Passenger Restriction
- GDL - Stronger Cell Phone Restriction
- GDL - Age 18 for Unrestricted License
- Open Container Law
- All-Driver Text Messaging Restriction

Link: 

Traffic collisions cost Missourians $5.6 billion annually - and our driving laws are behind the times in many ways | saferoads.org

MoBikeFed comment: Yes, in the year 2017 Missouri still allows driving with an OPEN container of alcohol in the passenger compartment with the driver.

And, we still allow any amount of texting while driving--as long as the driver is over 21.

FYI the Hands-free Electronic Device/Distracted Driving issue has some real momentum in Missouri this year. MoBikeFed is part of a large and active coalition working to improve roadway safety and reduce injuries and fatalities for all road users through measures such as these.