The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) successfully concluded its “Back to School, Back to Safety” enforcement campaign last week, making its presence known across the state as students returned to classrooms. The initiative, led by ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division, focused on reducing dangerous driving behaviors in and around school zones to protect children, educators and the community.
During the enforcement period, ALEA Troopers conducted a total of 741 traffic stops, resulting in 575 citations and 350 warnings. The most common violation was speeding, with 330 citations and 277 warnings issued specifically for drivers exceeding posted speed limits in or near school zones.
“Troopers did an outstanding job throughout Alabama by ensuring visibility and taking enforcement action in critical areas near schools,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Their efforts undeniably influenced driver behavior and reinforced the importance of slowing down where it matters most.”
Excessive speed in school zones remains a serious threat to student safety. Even a small increase in speed can drastically reduce a driver’s reaction time, putting children and crossing guards at risk.
“Speeding near a school is never worth the risk,” said Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS). “School zones are filled with children crossing streets, buses loading and unloading, and staff assisting students. One careless decision behind the wheel can have life-altering consequences. We ask every citizen to make this a priority—slow down and safeguard the future of our children and educators.”
ALEA encourages all motorists to remain vigilant, follow posted speed limits and eliminate distractions when traveling through school zones. Together, we can create a safer environment for students as they begin a new academic year.
