The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) announced an increased presence throughout the upcoming weekend. With the Iron Bowl and holiday travelers, millions will be on Alabama's roads this weekend.
ALEA's public information office released a statement saying all available troopers within ALEA's Highway Patrol division will conduct additional enforcement details through midnight this Sunday.
"ALEA requests you to travel with caution and patience this weekend," ALEA secretary Hal Taylor said. "We encourage everyone to make sure your vehicle is travel ready, leave early to allow for heavy traffic, buckle up and never drive impaired. Your welfare and the safety of others this season starts with an individual commitment to responsible actions."
Madison County has already seen the negative effects of increased highway traffic. A road rage incident led to a shooting on Thanksgiving Day.
HEMSI officials said emergency crews took a man with a gunshot wound to Huntsville Hospital Trauma Services in stable condition.
Colonel Jonathan Archer, director of ALEA's Department of Public Safety, said, "As law enforcement officers, ALEA Troopers face a multitude of challenges as part of their job but notifying the loved ones of those killed in traffic crashes is truly one of the most dreaded responsibilities they have."
He continued, "We ask those traveling on Alabama roadways to make traffic safety a top priority and remember that you are the best gift you can give your family this holiday season."
According to data compiled by the Center for Advanced Public Safety (CAPS) in Alabama, 65 lives have been tragically lost during previous extended Thanksgiving travel periods from 2018 to 2022. Since 2019, CAPS has recorded an overall decline in traffic-related injuries and deaths.
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