CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman County District Attorney’s Office, Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Cullman Police Department and Alabama State Troopers took part in a press conference Monday, Dec. 9, to implore the public to be aware and be safe on the roads this holiday season.
Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker started off the press conference by pushing the need for public safety awareness.
“We don’t want more traffic homicide cases,” he said. “Public safety, like justice, is everyone’s business. We are asking everyone to be extra cautious.”
Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry shared that one of the most important things you can do is take care of each other, especially this season and when the annual Jimmy Arrington Memorial Rodeo is taking place Dec. 13-14.
“There are going to be more people in Cullman County than normal; please pay attention,” Gentry said. “We have the holidays and Christmas coming up. We have the Christmas market and many events happening. Don’t text and drive and don’t drink and drive. I pray you come to the city of Cullman and visit, but while you are here, be mindful. Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you are taking care of each other.”
Cullman Police Chief Joey Duncan said this is the season for busy traffic in the city, and he stressed that if you drink and drive, you will be in jail.
“One fatality is too many,” Duncan said. “Pay attention, be vigilant and practice safety. Be safe — don’t cross the highway (on foot) without a crosswalk. Don’t wear dark colors at night if walking or running. Be aware of traffic and speeding. Last, do not drink and drive — if you do, you will be put in jail.”
Senior Alabama State Trooper Brandon Bailey said the purpose of the press conference is to save lives.
Bailey said It’s incredibly hard to go to someone’s loved one’s house and tell them their loved one passed away. He said it only takes a split second or one bad decision that can bring bad consequences. Bailey said primary contributing factors to traffic fatalities are not wearing seatbelts, speeding and distracted driving. He also cautioned that motorists need to remember to move over when emergency vehicles are present.
“It’s up to you,” he said. “We all share a responsibility.”
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