By Staff
Motorists will notice an increased trooper presence on Alabama’s roadways throughout the holiday travel season, as all available troopers will be on duty during a stepped-up enforcement effort that will include routine patrols and special enforcement details such as checkpoints and line patrols.
According to Public Safety Director Col. J. Christopher Murphy, troopers will be targeting drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs during the holiday travel season. “There is no more imminent threat to traffic safety than the drunken driver,” Murphy said. “Alabama troopers will be watchful for all traffic violations, but will be especially vigilant for drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs.”
He urged motorists to drive with care and caution during holiday travel, buckling up on each and every trip. “The consistent use of seatbelts and child restraints helps guarantee safety,” Murphy said. Troopers will specifically target violation of Alabama’s safety belt and child safety seat laws. Failure to use restraints significantly increases the chances of severe or fatal injury, particularly in crashes involving higher speeds, he said.
The Alabama Department of Public Safety estimates that 14 people may lose their lives in traffic crashes in the state during the 78-hour Christmas travel period, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22 and ends at midnight Monday, Dec. 25.
The traffic fatality prediction for New Year’s is that 14 people may die in traffic crashes in Alabama during the 78-hour period from 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 29, through midnight Monday, Jan. 1, 2007.