By Staff
Troopers urge safe travel
State Troopers urge motorists to drive safely and defensively throughout the Christmas and New Year's holiday periods.
All available troopers will be on patrol during peak holiday travel times to help ensure safe travel on Alabama's roadways, according to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
The department estimates six people will lose their lives in traffic crashes in the state during the 30-hour Christmas travel period.
In 2001, 17 people died in traffic crashes on Alabama's roadways during the Christmas holidays. Alcohol was a factor in at least four of those deaths and 10 of the wreck victims were not wearing seatbelts.
The traffic fatality prediction for New Year's is that four people will die in traffic crashes from Dec. 31-Jan. 1.
Last year, 16 people during the New Year's Eve travel period. At least six of those deaths were alcohol related.