[Montgomery, Ala.] – With Thanksgiving being one of the most heavily traveled holiday periods of the year, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) encourages everyone to be vigilant as they drive the state’s roadways or waterways.
ALEA is partnering with local law enforcement across the state to create a highly visible enforcement presence. “Our goal is to prevent crimes and traffic violations that lead to deaths and injuries,” Secretary of Law Enforcement Spencer Collier said. “During the 2013 Thanksgiving period, Alabama had 11 traffic fatalities, and we need you, members of the public, to help as we protect and promote safety this Thanksgiving. Please adhere to the safety tips and safeguards below during this this season.”
- Use seat belts and child restraints in motor vehicles and life vests on the water. During 2014, seat belts were not used in 51 percent of Trooper-investigated fatalities in Alabama. Wear your seatbelt no matter how short the distance.
- Avoid driving or boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Restrict access and closely monitor teens to prevent underage use of alcoholic beverages.
- Pay attention to speed limits and driving conditions on the road, and obey boating laws on the water.
All available officers will work additional shifts between 6 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, and midnight Sunday, Nov. 30. During this time, motorists should expect officers -- some in unmarked vehicles -- to make enforcement stops on roadways and waterways. In addition, Troopers will be available to assist motorists and can be reached by dialing *HP (*47) on their cell phones.
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The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) was created by Act 2013-67 and represents the consolidation and realignment of 12 state law enforcement agencies/functions into one entity. ALEA is currently in a transition period, and upon full implementation on January 1, 2015, will be responsible for the functions and missions of the Alabama Department of Homeland Security, Department of Public Safety, Alabama Bureau of Investigation, Fusion Center, Criminal Justice Information Center, Marine Police, Alcoholic Beverage Control Board Enforcement, Department of Revenue Enforcement, Forestry Commission Investigations, Agricultural and Industry Investigations, Public Service Commission Enforcement, and Office of Prosecution Service Computer Forensics Lab.
