HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Fourth of July weekend is here, and Alabama State Troopers expect a tremendous number of citizens to travel on the state’s roads and water. As people get ready for festivities, troopers want to remind everyone to be courteous and keep safety in mind.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “This year, we have focused on encouraging citizens to be fully prepared before leaving for their destination. Be sure to inspect and evaluate your vehicle, motorcycle, or vessel to ensure everything is in proper working order before you leave. Prevention and planning can spare you from having to deal with the consequences of a breakdown later, or even worse, a crash.”
Things to remember:
Utilize good driving behaviors.
Slow down and keep your distance.
Allow extra time and distance if roads are wet.
Pay attention to construction zones. The recent increase in crashes stemming from a variety of moving violations was one of the driving factors behind the Alabama Legislature’s most recent amendment to the construction zone law.
"Effective, Thursday, July 1, the fine for any moving traffic violation committed in a construction zone where workers are present will result in a $250 fine or double the regular fine, whichever amount is greater. Not only does this law include speeding, but it also includes other violations such as driving under the influence, following too closely, changing lanes without signaling and driving around barricades," an ALEA spokesperson said.
Other safety laws you need to know:
- You are required to make a lane change when approaching emergency or recovery vehicles, or slow down to a reasonable speed if they are not able to safely change lanes.
- The rules regarding distracted driving and DUI apply to boats as well as vehicles. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Operation Dry Water (ODW) will run through the holiday weekend. Secretary Taylor says, "“Operation Dry Water is scheduled closely to the Fourth of July holiday every year to educate boaters on the dangers of boating under the influence and reduce the number of accidents on waterways,” said Secretary Taylor. "Some of the dangers of consuming alcohol on the water include impaired judgment, reduced balance, vision and reaction time.
- Individuals under the age of 21 are prohibited from the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages and alcohol is not allowed on vessels operating on waterways that fall within dry counties or where the possession of alcoholic beverages is prohibited.
- Boaters should check with their local jurisdictions prior to taking alcoholic beverages along. “We also understand that many individuals will be out on the water at night to enjoy firework displays. Please keep the same concept of ‘drive to arrive’ in mind and slow down and be courteous when operating a vessel at night so that you and your passengers arrive safely to the dock or your destination,” said Secretary Taylor. “I wish everyone a Happy Independence Day, and I hope we all will do our part to make this a safe holiday for all.”