MONTGOMERY, Ala.– ALEA troopers were out in full force over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, releasing updated enforcement stats that show a sharp contrast between roadway and waterway safety across Alabama.
From July 3 to July 6, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) reported 314 traffic crashes resulting in 155 injuries and 12 fatalities. Crashes occurred in Dekalb, Mobile, Dale, Greene, Blount, Cleburne, Cullman and Montgomery counties.
Meanwhile, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division investigated seven boating accidents but reported zero boating fatalities. However, there was one non-boating-related drowning on July 5 at Chickasabogue Creek in Mobile County.
On the water, enforcement led to:
749 vessel stops
223 citations issued
1,074 warnings issued
8 boating under the influence (BUI) arrests
Common violations included failing to register vessels, lack of flotation devices, improper lighting, and not using emergency cut-off switches.
Troopers also issued:
83 warnings to non-residents without proper certification
77 warnings for proximity law violations
5 warnings for wake sport violations at Shoal Creek, Lake Martin, Lake Wedowee, Smith Lake, and Weiss Lake
On the roadways, enforcement included:
2,826 speeding citations
394 seat belt citations
19 DUI arrests
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives during the holiday weekend. Every life lost is a tragic reminder of why our mission is critical. At ALEA, we are committed to doing everything within our power to prevent such tragedies through education, enforcement and tireless dedication to public safety on both the waterways and roadways.”
Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, added, “While our Troopers are encouraged that there were no boating fatalities and that most Alabamians celebrated responsibly, 12 lives lost on our roadways is 12 too many. The mission of ALEA remains the same—protecting life, property and the motoring public. As we move through the remainder of the summer travel season, we urge everyone to remain focused on safety. Wear your seat belt, obey speed limits, never operate a vehicle or vessel under the influence and always remain aware of your surroundings.”
ALEA says it will continue high-visibility operations and education campaigns throughout the summer. For more information, visit www.ALEA.gov.
