State troopers are planning stepped up enforcement for the coming holiday weekends, said Sgt. Tim Sartain of the Alabama State Troopers. Troopers are increasing patrols in hot zones with special emphasis on impaired drivers and seatbelt usage.The Alabama Department of Public Safety estimates 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.
“We’re going to have increased patrols along interstates and other hot zones,” Sartain said. “Hopefully, everyone will work together to travel safely over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday.”
Public Safety Director Col. J. Christopher Murphy said troopers would 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,” he said.
Troopers are urging 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 also predict 14 people will die in crashes over the New Year’s 78-hour travel period beginning 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 29 through midnight Monday, Jan. 1.
In 2005, 13 people died in traffic crashes during the Christmas holiday period. Ten of the fatalities were on rural roadways and three in urban areas. Troopers say alcohol was a factor in a least three of the deaths and eight of the victims were not using safety belts.
Over the 2005 New Year holiday, 10 people died in crashes, six of which were on rural roads and four in urban areas. At least six of the deaths involved alcohol, three of the victims were not using safety belts.
