Troopers respond to fewer traffic deaths this Memorial Day

Over the Memorial Day holiday Alabama State Troopers responded to less than half the number of fatal accidents reported last year.

Beginning on Friday night through midnight on Monday, Cpl. Jess Thornton said, troopers investigated four fatal traffic accidents compared to 11 in 2016.

Troopers also responded to two fatal boating accidents.

The traffic crashes involved three drivers and one passenger and occurred in Baldwin, Conecuh, Jefferson and Tuscaloosa counties. Of the four who were killed, three of them were not using seat belts, Thornton said. 

The boating accident killed a man and his 3-year-old son, who were kayaking in Cleburne County. Marine Patrol Troopers said they were not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident. 

As of Monday, troopers have investigated 264 traffic fatalities so far in 2017. 

Thornton said troopers will continue to participate in Click It Or Ticket, a national safety campaign promoting seat-belt usage, through June 4. He also reminds people to use seat belts no matter how short the trip, as well as to use PFDs while on the water.

—Rebecca Burylo