21 people died in accidents in Alabama in nine days

According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, 21 people were killed in accidents across the state during the nine-day Thanksgiving holiday.

This year’s travel period was from Saturday, November 23rd to Sunday, December 1st.

Over the course of the nine-day period, state troopers said they investigated 473 traffic accidents in which 21 people died. Nineteen people were traveling in vehicles wearing seat belts; However, 10 people did not use it. One of the people killed was a pedestrian and another was a passenger in an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

The fatal crashes occurred in Baldwin, Cherokee, Clay, Colbert, Coosa, Dekalb, Elmore, Fayette, Geneva, Lee, Madison, Marion, Mobile, Perry, Pike, Tuscaloosa and Washington counties.

In addition, ALEA troopers issued 5,264 citations and 2,730 warnings and arrested 60 people for driving under the influence (DUI). The main causes of these tragic events include speeding, impaired driving and failure to wear a seat belt.

“The loss of 21 lives during what should be a joyous holiday season is devastating,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives. Each number represents a loved one whose absence will be felt deeply this Christmas and New Year. Please, as we move into another season of travel
Remember that messaging around road safety is crucial and awareness can help us save lives.”

ALEA says it will continue to enforce laws protecting lives on Alabama’s highways. The agency’s “12 Days of Safety.”
The campaign launches on Saturday, December 21st and runs until the New Year on January 1st, 2025.

– Information from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency