MONTGOMERY, Ala. — During a five-day Fourth of July travel period, Alabama State Troopers investigated a total of nine traffic fatalities and three non-boating fatalities (drownings). The official Fourth of July travel period started at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 3, and ended at midnight on Sunday, July 7.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “Unfortunately, this holiday period ended in tragedy for 12 individuals and their loved ones, which we extend our deepest condolences. 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.”
According to ALEA, this marks the third consecutive year without any boating-related deaths on Alabama waterways.
In their work on the water,, ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division handled 14 boating incidents, made 14 BUI arrests, and issued citations for marine safety violations.
“I echo Secretary Taylor's comments: our jobs are never done. 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," ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Director, Colonel Jonathan Archer said. "Our Troopers will continue to work diligently to enforce traffic and boating laws to protect the lives of all Alabamians and its visitors. We are continuing our '101 Days of Summer Safety' educational campaign and the Rescue Swimmer Detail on the Gulf Coast. We will kick off Rural Road Safety Awareness Week on July 15th, and then we will also be joining our neighbors in Georgia for a joint safety initiative known as 'Operation Southern Slow Down' on the same day to focus on speeding and reckless driving.”
ALEA also urges beachgoers to stay informed about local conditions. Daily updates on beach conditions and warning flags in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are available by texting ALBEACHES to 888777.
