In the midst of the holiday season, many of us are focused on traditions—family gatherings, festive meals, and safely getting from one celebration to the next. It’s also a time when travel increases, schedules get tighter, and roadways become busier than usual.
A Timely Start to Safety Planning
Last week, the Mobile County Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan officially kicked off with Sain, SARPC, and local stakeholders. Coincidentally, that same week, the 50th week of the year, has averaged the highest number of crashes over the past five years. Interestingly, the week following Thanksgiving historically records the lowest number of crashes, reminding us that timing, behavior, and awareness all play a role in roadway safety.
The Impact of Crashes in Mobile County
Over the last five years, Mobile County has experienced nearly 71,000 crashes and almost 350 fatalities. During the holiday season, these statistics become more than just numbers. Nearly everyone has been affected by a vehicle crash—either personally or through a family member or friend. Crashes can be costly, life-changing, and tragic, yet many are also preventable.
Mobile County, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), and local municipalities work year-round, especially during high-travel seasons, to make our roads safer.
ALDOT’s ASAP Program: Help When It Matters Most
One of the most effective tools supporting roadway safety is ALDOT’s Alabama Service and Assistance Patrol (ASAP) program. Much like roadside helpers ready at a moment’s notice, ASAP vehicles are strategically positioned along busy corridors to quickly assist drivers in need.
ASAP patrols reduce accident clearance times by:
- Assisting at crash scenes,
- Moving disabled vehicles out of travel lanes,
- Providing traffic control, and
- Helping with minor issues such as flat tires or dead batteries.
By restoring traffic flow quickly, ASAP helps reduce congestion and prevent dangerous secondary crashes—an especially important service during heavy holiday traffic.
Alabama’s Quick Clearance Law reinforces these safety efforts. After minor, non-injury crashes, drivers are required to move their vehicles out of travel lanes and onto the shoulder when possible. This simple action protects motorists, first responders, and fellow travelers. The message is straightforward and worth remembering during the holidays: “If you can steer it, clear it.”
When Safety Becomes Personal
My family has personally benefited from the ASAP program on two occasions. On one holiday season commute, my fuel pump failed at the bottom of the Bankhead Tunnel. Through the tunnel’s video system, ASAP identified the issue, spoke to me over the intercom, and arrived within minutes to pull my vehicle to safety.
More recently, my youngest son experienced a tire blowout on I-10 westbound. With flashing yellow lights alerting approaching traffic, ASAP arrived quickly and helped minimize the impact of a disabled vehicle on one of Mobile County’s busiest corridors.
A Season of Gratitude and Safe Travel
While the interstates are not covered under the Mobile County SS4A plan, they are well managed by the Alabama Department of Transportation—and for that, the Harrisons are especially thankful this holiday season.
As we close out the year, let’s remember that safety is one of the greatest gifts we can give one another. Slowing down, staying alert, and clearing the roadway, when possible, can help ensure that everyone arrives safely to celebrate with family and friends. From all of us, we wish you safe travels and happy holidays.