2018 Crash Facts

• November 22nd, 2019

Safety is paramount in the work we do at the Alabama Department of Transportation. It begins with our pre-construction process, where we plan and design the safest roads and bridges possible. Whether it’s planning for new construction, replacing functionally obsolete or structurally deficient bridges, or widening shoulders scored with rumble strips on rural resurfacing projects, we focus on safety.

Analyzing data about crashes is an important part of how ALDOT personnel identify specific opportunities for improving the safety of our transportation system. We then use innovative engineering techniques, perform routine maintenance, and manage funding in a fiscally responsible and priority-based manner to create safer roads.

As you review the data in the 2018 Crash Facts book, I challenge you to consider your personal commitment to safety and the things you can do to help reduce the number of crashes in Alabama. Always follow speed limits; drive sober; buckle up; share the road with motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians; obey railroad crossing signals; avoid any and all forms of distracted driving; and lead by example by teaching young people safe driving habits.

Wearing a seat belt and making sure that everybody in the vehicle is wearing a seat belt is the single most important safety habit you can adopt. You will see on page 22 of 2018 Crash Facts that ALMOST 60 PERCENT OF PEOPLE WHO DIED IN CRASHES WERE NOT WEARING A SEAT BELT. Statistics clearly show that seat belts save lives. Violators of Alabama’s seat belt laws may be fined and assessed points on their driver licenses. Simply put, there are plenty of good reasons to buckle up.

I hope you will look further into 2018 Crash Facts to find even more important insights into making our roads safe.

John R. Cooper
Transportation Director