HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Alabama law enforcement officers are urging Alabamians of all ages to ensure safety is part of their Memorial Day Weekend and during the summer months.
“We continuously strive to ensure Alabama’s roadways and waterways are safe for everyone throughout the entire weekend,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said. “However, it is the little things that you can do ahead of time that can help save yours or someone else’s life.”
"Know where you're at," said Brent Patterson, Public Information Officer for the Madison County Sheriff's Office. "Know your surroundings. Never leave in a hurry. Plan ahead. Plan to know where you're going. Always use your seatbelt. Kids in the backseat. Make sure everyone has their seatbelt on. That's something that's important this weekend, as well as everyday."
Secretary Taylor encourages travelers to check your vehicle before you leave, particularly for long-distance travel. "Be sure to familiarize yourself with the route to avoid missing an important turn or exit which could potentially put yourself and others at risk. When preparing your vehicle, be sure to check fuel and oil levels, tire pressure and make sure lights are in proper working order to avoid any incidents or crashes while traveling."
Between May 29 and May 31, ALEA’s Highway Patrol and Marine Patrol Divisions predict heavier-than-normal traffic on the road, as well as on the water. All available ALEA Troopers from both divisions will be working throughout the weekend to patrol and enforce state laws to ensure everyone’s safety.
In addition, state law enforcement will combine forces with county and municipal agencies to enforce all laws, including traffic, boating, and alcoholic beverage laws. Lt. Jesse Sumlin of the Huntsville Police says that HPD will have officers out all weekend watching for impaired drivers and traffic violations. "We want everyone to stay safe, and if they plan to drink, they should have a designated driver or use Uber, Lyft or a taxi to get home."
More safety tips from ALEA:
- Avoid driving and/or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you plan on consuming alcohol pre-plan for a designated driver, call Uber or a cab. Designate a sober driver in advance to get you home safely.
- Simply obey the law. Slow down and obey the speed limits. Focus on driving by putting aside cell phones and other items that may distract you. Use caution when traveling in construction zones and keep in mind Alabama’s Move Over Law.
- Buckle up – no matter how short your trip. Ensure all of the vehicle’s occupants are buckled up (or using a child restraint system) and those on your boat are using or have access to personal flotation devices (PFDs are required at all times for children younger than age 8.)
- Be courteous and cautious on the road and water. Always allow a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, so you can react to a traffic situation quickly and allow other drivers to maneuver around your car safely when needed. Always signal in advance before turning or changing lanes, always give the right of way to pedestrians and be sure to check your blind spots for other vehicles or motorcycles. If boating, know the rules of the water, including what to do in a head-to-head meeting, who has the right of way and other regulations.
- Avoid the water during inclement weather, particularly when it includes thunder and lightning. “We want everyone to enjoy this extended holiday weekend, however, the journey does not end until everyone makes it home safely,” said Secretary Taylor. “We ask that you prepare ahead, make smart choices and celebrate responsibly.”