ALEA Boosts Spring Break Patrols, Urges Alabamians to Think Smart Before Driving

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency troopers fanned out across the state this week under the agency's annual "Think Smart Before You Start Spring Break" campaign, targeting speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and seat belt violations as Spring Break traffic volumes climbed statewide.

"Spring Break travel brings heavier traffic volumes and increased risks on our roadways," said Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA's Department of Public Safety. "Our Troopers will be proactively patrolling across the state to deter dangerous driving behaviors and respond quickly when needed. We are asking drivers to slow down, stay focused and make responsible choices behind the wheel so everyone reaches their destination safely."

The enforcement push extends beyond the highway. Special Agents assigned to ALEA's State Bureau of Investigation Alcohol Unit began actively working cases involving underage drinking, illegal alcohol sales, and the use of fraudulent identification. SBI Director Chris Inabinett made clear that seasonal celebrations carry no exemptions from the law.

"Illegal activity doesn't get a pass during Spring Break," Inabinett said. "These are not minor offenses; they carry real legal consequences."

Under Alabama law, individuals under 21 who possess or consume alcohol may face criminal charges. Providing alcohol to minors or using fake identification can also result in penalties, the agency said.

ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor framed the effort as a unified mission reaching from interstates to house parties. "Whether on our highways or within our communities, our mission remains the same, to protect life and uphold the law," Taylor said. "We want everyone to enjoy this time, but more importantly, we want them to make it home safely." Taylor also offered a direct warning to young people weighing risky choices: "Thinking smart before you start can prevent a moment of poor judgment from becoming a lifelong consequence."

Alongside enforcement, ALEA launched student outreach events already underway statewide and set to continue through prom season into April. Prom Promise events use scenario-based demonstrations to illustrate how quickly poor decisions can lead to tragedy. Fatal Vision courses go further, allowing students to experience firsthand how alcohol and drugs impair coordination, reaction time, and judgment, rather than simply hearing about those effects in a classroom.

ALEA's guidance for anyone traveling during the break: never drink and drive or ride with an impaired driver, plan safe transportation in advance, obey all posted speed limits, wear a seat belt, avoid distractions, and watch for heavier foot traffic at popular destinations. Updates and safety information are available through ALEA's social media account, @ALEAProtects.