The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has revealed the number of traffic related fatalities and drownings that it recorded across the state during the Fourth of July travel period. They noted that during the same time frame, for the third year in a row, zero boating fatalities were recorded.
Troopers with the agency reportedly investigated nine traffic fatalities as well as three drownings.
The traffic fatalities occurred in Calhoun, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Cullman, Escambia, Jackson, Marshall and Tuscaloosa counties with Wednesday, July 3, being the only zero-fatality day. Of those killed, six were drivers, one was a passenger, and two were motorcyclists. Both motorcyclists were using helmets at the time of their crashes, but only one person of the seven traveling in vehicles equipped with seat belts was buckled up at the time of the crash. The three drownings occurred at Oak Mountain State Park in Shelby County, Wheeler Lake in Morgan County, and Palmetto Creek in Baldwin County.
“Unfortunately, this holiday period ended in tragedy for 12 individuals and their loved ones, which we extend our deepest condolences,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said “For law enforcement, this number is a stark reminder that our job is never done. While I commend all of our officers and the state’s first responders who worked tirelessly over the holiday away from their families, I also pledge to the public that our Agency will continue our mission of protecting and serving by conducting high-visibility enforcement details and providing educational opportunities to combat dangerous driving and boating habits and reduce such tragedies.”
ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Director, Colonel Jonathan Archer, implored the public to practice caution while driving and traveling.
“I echo Secretary Taylor’s comments: our jobs are never done,” Archer said. “With the increase in summer activities and travel, it is imperative that safety remains a top priority for everyone. Please remember to wear your seat belts, put down your phone and other distractions, and never operate a vehicle or boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
“Our Troopers will continue to work diligently to enforce traffic and boating laws to protect the lives of all Alabamians and its visitors.”
Additionally, over the holiday troopers assigned to ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division investigated 206 traffic crashes, made 48 DUI arrests, issued 2,429 citations for speeding, and issued 1,211 citations for seat belts and/or improper child restraints. Troopers assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division investigated 14 boating incidents, made 14 BUI arrests , issued 206 Marine Safety citations, and issued 852 Marine Safety Warnings.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
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