Montgomery, AL – As Thanksgiving is nearing, Alabama roadways are gearing to prepare to host one of the most busy times during the calendar year. With AAA forecasting that there will be more than 49 million Americans driving around the country for the holiday and authorities from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) urges motorists to pay attention to the safety of others. The year is the first time ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor insists on the importance of every individual’s dedication to responsible behavior and is expressed in the word”TURKEY.
The Thanksgiving travel season that runs between midnight a.m. from Wednesday the 22nd of November. 22 through midnight on Sunday, November. 26 will witness increased enforcement efforts from AL’s Highway Patrol Division. Troopers will conduct additional information to ensure the security of Alabama roads, hoping to stop traffic crashes or injuries and even fatalities.
Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of the ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, highlights the seriousness of the situation by saying, “Notifying the loved ones of the victims of traffic accidents is among the top difficult obligations our Troopers face.” Archer urges travelers to put safety first as well as reminds motorists that their dedication to driving safely is the most valuable gift they can offer their families this Christmas season.
According to the data of CAPS, the Center for Advanced Public Safety (CAPS) in Alabama the most recent extended travel times for Thanksgiving (2018-2022) witnessed 65 people lost. Although there has been a decrease in deaths and injuries resulting from traffic accidents since the year 2019. ALEA stresses the importance of everyone’s cooperation in order to keep this trend.
To ensure your safety during the Thanksgiving travel experience, ALEA Troopers provide the following tips for traffic safety that are encapsulated in the acronym TURKEY:
T – Make breaks to rotate your driver Avoid fatigue on long drives by taking breaks by stretching your legs, and making sure you’re alert prior to getting back behind the steering wheel.
U – Wear seatbelts and properly fitted child restraints: Alabama law requires all passengers to wear a seatbelt regardless of age, or seating place. Always buckle up regardless of how short.
R – Remind Alabama’s Move Over Law: When approaching emergency vehicles or tow trucks switch lanes or slow to minimum 15 mph lower than the speed limit posted.
K – Use the left lane to pass only. Always follow courteous driving rules, stay to the left, and make use of the left lane for passing when it is necessary.
Eliminate distractions when driving. Avoid distractions like texting calling, texting or altering devices. Alabama Law prohibits driving while texting.
You’re the most valuable gift you can offer your family members: Follow safe driving practices, don’t be drunk and driving, or come up with alternate plans in the event of drinking.
As families get ready in the spirit of Thanksgiving ALEA stresses that the following small, yet crucial steps could have a profound impact on the safety of roads in this hectic time of the year. If you adhere to the TURKEY acronym, everyone can ensure a safe as well as a more pleasant Thanksgiving experience for everyone.
