Congratulations to the winners of the Missouri Department of Transportation's Drive Clear in the New Year Contest: David Hutchings, High Ridge; Tammy Bradshaw, Quincy, Ill.; Dorothy Griffith, Overland; and Lorna Baxter, Columbia.

The contest was designed to increase awareness about the consequences of impaired driving and to urge individuals to make a pledge, or New Year's resolution, to drive sober all year. Winners were selected randomly from 2,774 entries and each will receive a $20 gas card donated by MFA Oil/Break Time.

The sobering fact is that impaired driving contributes to 30 percent of all Missouri traffic fatalities.  In 2009, 281 people were killed and 1,141 seriously injured in crashes involving an impaired driver.  The choice is yours. Be responsible and Drive Clear in the New Year.

#  #  #