Despite the best efforts of law enforcement officials to warn travelers of the dangers of the Christmas weekend, five people were killed in the Black Belt in traffic accidents.

Six accidents occurred in the Craig Field Trooper Post’s area, killing five, according to State Trooper John Reese.

Two accidents occurred in Dallas County, one in Wilcox, one in Marengo and two in Hale.

Reese said traffic accidents were up this year.

“We had only one in Dallas (last year),” Reese said.

He said the general lack of enforcement officials all over the state was the reason.

“We don’t really have enough troopers out,” he said. “That’s why Gov. Riley is enlisting the help of local enforcement.”

While five people were killed, Reese was happy it wasn’t more.

“We predicted 14 for the Christmas holiday,” he said.

State troopers commit as many

resources as possible during the holidays.

“Public Safety’s goal during the holidays and throughout the year is to prevent needless deaths and injuries,” said Public Safety Director W.M. Coppage.

In 2003, 18 people died in traffic crashes on Alabama roadways during the 102-hour Christmas period, 16 on rural roads and two in urban areas.

Alcohol was a factor in at least eight of the deaths, and 10 of the wreck victims were not using safety belts.