Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has concluded its Thanksgiving holiday enforcement initiative, which spanned from Saturday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, Dec. 1. The campaign aimed to enhance safety during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year but revealed alarming results.
Over the nine-day period, ALEA Troopers investigated 473 traffic crashes, resulting in 21 fatalities. Tragically, 10 of the individuals who lost their lives were not wearing seat belts. The fatalities included a pedestrian and a passenger on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).
The crashes were reported in Baldwin, Cherokee, Clay, Colbert, Coosa, Dekalb, Elmore, Fayette, Geneva, Lee, Madison, Marion, Mobile, Perry, Pike, Tuscaloosa, and Washington counties.
In addition to the fatal crashes, ALEA Troopers issued 5,264 citations, 2,730 warnings, and made 60 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests. Speeding, impaired driving, and failure to use seat belts were identified as major contributing factors.
“The loss of 21 lives during what is meant to be a joyous holiday season is devastating,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said. “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 holiday season in full swing, ALEA is urging drivers to prioritize safety by avoiding impaired driving, obeying speed limits, and ensuring all passengers are buckled up. Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility.
“Creating a safe environment on our roads is a responsibility we all share,” Archer said. “Let us honor those we’ve lost this season by committing to safer driving practices moving forward.”
As families prepare for upcoming celebrations, ALEA is launching its annual “12 Days of Safety” campaign, which will run from Saturday, Dec. 21, through New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2025. The initiative aims to further reduce roadway fatalities through education and enforcement.
For more information about traffic safety tips or the “12 Days of Safety” campaign, visit ALEA’s website.
