May 26, 2013
Montgomery - During the 78-hour Fourth of July holiday travel period from 6 p.m. Friday, July 1, through midnight Monday, July 4, state troopers investigated nine fatal crashes resulting in nine traffic deaths.
It is estimated that alcohol was a factor in the majority of these crashes, and more than half of the individuals killed were not wearing seat belts.
Last year, a total of 13 traffic deaths occurred in Alabama during the Fourth of July travel period, and state troopers investigated six of those.
This year's statewide total is not available at this time.
Troopers investigated fatal crashes in Baldwin, Wilcox, Houston, Dallas, Jefferson (two), St. Clair, Talladega and Limestone counties.
In addition, troopers investigated 350 traffic crashes, and they issued 3,414 citations for speeding and 1,169 citations for seat belt/child restraint violations.
They also made 148 DUI arrests and assisted 253 motorists with various needs.
