Montgomery, AL – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) recently unveiled a heartening decrease in traffic fatalities on the state’s roadways, signaling a positive trend that persisted throughout 2023. Troopers assigned to ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division scrutinized crashes resulting in 26 fewer lives lost compared to 2022, following a similar decrease of 19 fatalities from 2021 to 2022.
“I would like to personally thank the public for sharing our safety messages and their assistance in making our roadways safer for everyone,” expressed ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor, acknowledging the collective effort that played a role in enhancing road safety. However, he also underscored that the agency’s commitment to safety remains unwavering, with ongoing endeavors to further reduce crashes and fatalities.
“While we are constantly striving to reduce the number of crashes and fatalities on our roadways, our work at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is never done,” remarked Secretary Taylor. “Tragically, our Troopers continue to investigate traffic crashes resulting in individuals failing to return home to their friends and loved ones.”
To reinforce the commitment to safety, ALEA conducted its ’12 Days of Safety’ initiative during the festive season, spanning from December 21 to January 1. The initiative encompassed a spectrum of critical topics, from winterizing vehicles and preparing for road travel to emphasizing seat belt safety and addressing risky driving behaviors like impaired and drowsy driving.
“However, we focus on the many facets of traffic safety 365 days a year,” emphasized Colonel Jon Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety. “Our goal is to make Alabama roadways – and waterways – as safe as possible, and we work daily to prevent traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities.”
Despite the overall positive trend, 19 lives were lost during the official nine-day travel period. Analysis revealed that, of the 16 individuals traveling in vehicles with seat belts, only three were using seat belts, underscoring the importance of proper restraint. The fatal crashes spanned various counties, including Calhoun, Chambers, Cleburne, Houston, Jefferson, Lauderdale, Lowndes, Marengo, Montgomery, Russell, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa, and Wilcox.
“Please understand ALEA Troopers who make traffic stops and enforce Alabama’s laws are attempting to save lives,” stressed Colonel Archer. “Those laws are to protect each citizen and visitor of this great state and reduce fatal tragedies.”
In 2023, ALEA Troopers investigated 31,717 traffic crashes, resulting in 11,070 injuries, including 560 fatal injuries. While crashes decreased by 273, injuries increased by 156 compared to the previous year. Colonel Archer emphasized the significance of remaining courteous on the roadways throughout the year, reminding motorists that ALEA Troopers aim to save lives through enforcement and adherence to traffic laws. Plans and initiatives are already in motion to ensure the positive trend continues in 2024.
