Police presence on holiday highways

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An article from The Clanton Advertiser talks of the increased Alabama state trooper presence on the highways during the upcoming busy holiday season. Due to past statistics of more motor vehicle accidents during the holidays, the state has increased its law enforcement efforts this year.

All available troopers will be patroling the roads and especially looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

The Alabama Department of Public Safety estimates that 14 people may lose their lives in traffic crashes in the state during the 78-hour Christmas travel period, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22, and ends at midnight Monday, Dec. 25.

In 2005, 13 people died in traffic crashes on Alabama roadways during the 78-hour Christmas period, 10 on rural roadways and three in urban areas. Alcohol was a factor in at least three of the deaths, and eight of the wreck victims were not using safety belts.