FROM STAFF REPORTS

MONTGOMERY — Anticipating heavier-than-usual traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday travel period, Alabama State Troopers urge motorists to obey all traffic laws, drive defensively and be patient.

Between 6 p.m. Nov. 27 and midnight Dec. 1, troopers and other state and local law enforcement officers will be highly visible, working additional shifts to patrol Alabama’s roadways and to assist motorists.

“Our goal during this 102-hour safety campaign is simple: To prevent traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities,” said Col. Hugh B.  Mc Call, director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety and the state’s highest-ranking trooper.

Troopers will aggressively enforce traffic laws and target dangerous behavior such as driving under the influence, speeding, distracted driving and following too closely.

According to Public Safety statistics from Thanksgiving weekend 2012, seven individuals were killed on Alabama roadways during that holiday travel period. Troopers say five of the individuals were in vehicles equipped with seat belts, but only two were using them. Also, alcohol was a factor in at least two of the seven fatal crashes.

McCall urges motorists to avoid driving under the influence and insists everyone in the vehicle buckles up no matter how short the drive.

“With help from you, we will make a difference on our state’s roadways – not just during Thanksgiving, but throughout the year,” McCall said. “May we count on you?”