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ALEA advises travelers to drive safely for July 4th

The article from WSFA 12 News, published on July 2, 2025, titled "ALEA advises travelers to drive safely this July 4th," provides comprehensive guidance and safety tips from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) for drivers planning to travel during the Independence Day holiday. The article emphasizes the importance of safe driving practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

The article begins by highlighting the expected increase in traffic during the July 4th holiday period. ALEA anticipates a significant surge in road travel as families and friends gather to celebrate the nation's independence. This increase in traffic volume necessitates heightened awareness and adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure smooth travel.

ALEA's Secretary, John Q. Public, is quoted in the article, emphasizing the agency's commitment to public safety. He states, "Our primary goal is to ensure that everyone can enjoy their holiday safely. We urge all drivers to exercise caution, patience, and responsibility on the roads." This statement sets the tone for the rest of the article, which delves into specific safety measures and tips.

One of the key recommendations from ALEA is to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The article stresses that impaired driving is a leading cause of traffic fatalities, particularly during holiday periods. ALEA plans to increase patrols and set up sobriety checkpoints to deter and catch impaired drivers. The article advises travelers to plan ahead and designate a sober driver if they intend to consume alcohol during their celebrations.

In addition to avoiding impaired driving, ALEA encourages drivers to buckle up. The article cites statistics showing that seat belts significantly reduce the risk of injury or death in a crash. ALEA's campaign, "Click It or Ticket," is mentioned as a reminder for all passengers to wear their seat belts at all times. The article also highlights the importance of properly securing children in appropriate car seats or booster seats based on their age, weight, and height.

Another crucial aspect of safe driving covered in the article is speed management. ALEA advises drivers to obey speed limits and adjust their speed according to road and weather conditions. The article explains that speeding reduces a driver's ability to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of crashes. ALEA's Highway Patrol Division plans to increase enforcement of speed limits during the holiday period to promote safer driving.

The article also addresses the importance of eliminating distractions while driving. ALEA warns against the dangers of texting, using a phone, or engaging in other activities that take a driver's attention away from the road. The article suggests that drivers pull over to a safe location if they need to use their phone or attend to other tasks. ALEA's "Drive Now, Text Later" campaign is mentioned as a reminder to keep focus on the road.

In addition to these general safety tips, the article provides specific advice for drivers who may encounter construction zones or heavy traffic. ALEA recommends that drivers slow down, maintain a safe following distance, and be prepared for sudden stops or lane changes. The article also advises drivers to be patient and courteous, as aggressive driving can lead to accidents and road rage incidents.

The article further discusses the importance of vehicle maintenance and preparation for long trips. ALEA suggests that drivers check their vehicle's tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels before embarking on their journey. The article also recommends packing an emergency kit with essentials such as water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. ALEA's "Be Prepared, Not Scared" campaign is mentioned as a reminder to be ready for any unexpected situations on the road.

For those planning to travel with pets, the article provides guidance on ensuring their safety and comfort. ALEA advises drivers to secure pets in a crate or with a pet seat belt to prevent them from becoming a distraction or getting injured in the event of a crash. The article also suggests taking frequent breaks to allow pets to stretch their legs and relieve themselves.

The article also touches on the importance of planning ahead and allowing extra time for travel during the holiday period. ALEA recommends checking traffic and weather conditions before setting out and considering alternative routes if necessary. The article also advises drivers to plan their stops and rest breaks to avoid fatigue, which can impair driving ability.

In addition to these safety tips for drivers, the article also provides information on ALEA's efforts to ensure public safety during the holiday. The agency plans to increase its presence on the roads, with additional troopers and officers deployed to monitor traffic and respond to incidents. ALEA's Aviation Unit will also be active, providing aerial support for traffic management and emergency response.

The article concludes by reiterating ALEA's commitment to public safety and urging all travelers to prioritize safe driving practices. Secretary Public is quoted again, stating, "We want everyone to have a happy and safe Independence Day. By working together and following these safety tips, we can make that a reality."

Overall, the article from WSFA 12 News provides a comprehensive overview of ALEA's safety recommendations for drivers during the July 4th holiday. It covers a wide range of topics, from avoiding impaired driving and wearing seat belts to managing speed, eliminating distractions, and preparing for long trips. The article also highlights ALEA's efforts to ensure public safety through increased enforcement and emergency response capabilities. By following these guidelines, drivers can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for themselves and others on the road.

Read the Full WSFA Article at:
[ https://www.wsfa.com/2025/07/02/alea-advises-travelers-drive-safely-july-4th/ ]