MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has concluded its
Thanksgiving holiday enforcement period, which took place from Saturday, November 23, to
Sunday, December 1. This critical initiative aimed to ensure the safety of all citizens during one
of the busiest travel seasons of the year.
During this nine-day period, ALEA Troopers investigated 473 traffic crashes, resulting in 21
fatalities. Nineteen individuals were traveling in vehicles equipped with seat belts; however, 10
individuals did not use them. One of the individuals killed was a pedestrian and another was a
passenger on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).
The deadly crashes occurred in Baldwin, Cherokee, Clay, Colbert, Coosa, Dekalb, Elmore,
Fayette, Geneva, Lee, Madison, Marion, Mobile, Perry, Pike, Tuscaloosa and Washington
counties.
Additionally, ALEA Troopers issued 5,264 citations and 2,730 warnings, along with making 60
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests. The top contributing factors in these tragic events
include speeding, driving impaired and the absence of seat belt usage.
“The loss of 21 lives during what is meant to be a joyous holiday season is devastating,” said
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of those
who lost their lives. Each number represents a loved one whose absence will be felt deeply this
Christmas and New Year. As we transition into yet another highly traveled period, please
remember that the messages surrounding traffic safety are critical and awareness can help us
save lives.”
With the holidays fast approaching, ALEA urges all drivers to remain vigilant and practice safe
driving behaviors. The potential for increased intoxication and traffic congestion heightens the
risk of accidents during this festive time.
“We encourage everyone to prioritize safety by not driving under the influence, obeying speed
limits, and ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up,” said ALEA’s Department of
Public Safety (DPS) Director, Colonel Jonathan Archer. “Creating a safe environment on our
roads is a responsibility we all share. Let us honor those we’ve lost this season by committing to
safer driving practices moving forward.”
As we prepare to celebrate with family and friends once again, ALEA invites everyone to join in
the annual ‘12 Days of Safety’ Campaign by making a commitment to abide by traffic laws and share safety messages with loved ones ahead of the holidays. We can all play a part in reducing fatalities and ensuring the safety of our roads.
Media Release/Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey/Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
