Montgomery, AL – As Spring Break travel increases across Alabama, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is encouraging motorists and students to prioritize safety and responsible decision-making, noting that enforcement efforts will extend beyond roadways to include illegal activities often associated with seasonal celebrations.
Through its annual “Think Smart Before You Start Spring Break” campaign, ALEA is focusing on both safe travel and responsible conduct as activity levels rise statewide.
Spring Break is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and ALEA Troopers are expected to maintain a strong presence on Alabama roadways. Enforcement efforts will target speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving and seat belt compliance.
“Spring Break travel brings heavier traffic volumes and increased risks on our roadways,” said Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS). “Our Troopers will be proactively patrolling across the state to deter dangerous driving behaviors and respond quickly when needed. We are asking drivers to slow down, stay focused and make responsible choices behind the wheel so everyone reaches their destination safely.”
ALEA officials emphasized that safety concerns are not limited to highways. Special Agents with ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Alcohol Unit will also be active during Spring Break, focusing on underage drinking, illegal alcohol sales and the use of fraudulent identification.
“Illegal activity doesn’t get a pass during Spring Break,” said SBI Director Chris Inabinett. “Our Special Agents are committed to identifying and investigating violations involving underage drinking and illegal alcohol activity. These are not minor offenses; they carry real legal consequences and can quickly escalate into dangerous situations.”
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor noted that public safety efforts involve coordination across all divisions of the agency.
“Whether on our highways or within our communities, our mission remains the same, to protect life and uphold the law,” Taylor said. “ALEA Troopers and Special Agents will be working together throughout Spring Break to ensure that those traveling and those celebrating do so safely and responsibly. We want everyone to enjoy this time, but more importantly, we want them to make it home. Thinking smart before you start can prevent a moment of poor judgment from becoming a lifelong consequence.”
Under Alabama law, individuals under the age of 21 who possess or consume alcohol may face criminal charges. Providing alcohol to minors or using fraudulent identification can also result in significant penalties.
In addition to enforcement, ALEA continues to engage students through educational initiatives such as “Prom Promise” and Fatal Vision programs. These efforts use hands-on demonstrations to illustrate the dangers of impaired driving. Prom Promise events simulate real-life crash scenarios, while Fatal Vision exercises allow participants to experience the effects of impairment on coordination, reaction time and judgment.
These programs are currently taking place statewide and will continue through Spring Break and into the prom season in April.
ALEA encourages individuals to plan ahead and follow key safety guidelines:
- Never drink and drive or ride with an impaired driver
- Plan safe transportation in advance
- Obey all traffic laws and posted speed limits
- Always wear a seat belt and avoid distractions
- Remain aware of pedestrians and increased foot traffic in popular destinations
- Understand the risks and legal consequences of underage drinking
“Spring Break should be remembered for the right reasons,” Taylor added. “A smart decision before you start can make the difference between making memories and facing consequences.”
