MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has released its traffic crash numbers upon the conclusion of its Thanksgiving holiday enforcement period.
This period ran from Nov. 23 to Dec. 1 and covers one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. During these nine days, ALEA says state troopers investigated 473 traffic crashes, with 21 fatalities.
The deadly crashes occurred in Baldwin, Cherokee, Clay, Colbert, Coosa, Dekalb, Elmore, Fayette, Geneva, Lee, Madison, Marion, Mobile, Perry, Pike, Tuscaloosa and Washington counties. ALEA cites speeding, driving while impaired and not using seat belts as top contributing factors in these crashes.
Troopers say 19 individuals were traveling in vehicles equipped with seat belts, but 10 individuals did not use them. One of the individuals killed was a pedestrian and another was a passenger on an all-terrain vehicle.
Additionally, troopers issued 5,264 citations and 2,730 warnings, along with making 60 DUI arrests.
"The loss of 21 lives during what is meant to be a joyous holiday season is devastating," said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. "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."
"We encourage everyone to prioritize safety by not driving under the influence, obeying speed limits, and ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up," said ALEA's Department of Public Safety director, Col. Jonathan Archer. "Creating a safe environment on our roads is a responsibility we all share. Let us honor those we've lost this season by committing to safer driving practices moving forward."