The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, formerly known as the Alabama State Patrol – will be out-in-force through the New Year’s Holiday, which officially ends at midnight on Friday, January 2nd; Secretary of Law Enforcement Spencer Collier said that the department’s goal is for motorists to arrive safely at their destinations – adding that all state law enforcement officials will be working to create a highly visible presence, intended to prevent crimes and violations on Alabama’s roadways.

He says the public should expect officers, even in unmarked vehicles, to make enforcement stops during this time.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during last year’s Holiday Travel Period, alcohol was involved in 5 of the 17 trooper investigated fatalities which took place during that time span.

Don’t drink and drive.

If you are planning on consuming alcohol – plan ahead by naming a “designated driver” to make sure everyone makes it home safely.

If hosting a New Year’s Eve Party provide those guests who’ve had too much to drink with a place to stay overnight in your home / serve non-alcoholic beverages as an option for your guests / take the keys from anyone that you feel may be too impaired to drive.

Common sense can save lives.

And remember Troopers will be available to assist motorists and can be reached by dialing STAR-HP (that’s *47) on their cell phones.