It's a little safer behind the wheel in Alabama. State officials say fewer traffic fatalities are the result of stepped-up patrols. News 4's Lisa Blackwell spoke with state troopers today.

Alabama state troopers say a statewide campaign to save lives on the highway is finally paying off. Year to date, trooper-investigated fatalities totaled 527 that are down 102 deaths from 2008.

We’ve investigated 558 fewer crashes and 824 fewer injuries. That’s 102 death notifications we don't have to make and so we're actually making an impact and so is our programs working take back our highways, definitely without a doubt they are.

Officials say use of the bat mobile and more check points have helped put the brakes on DUI’s. They made 500 more dui arrests this year. However, folks need to slow down and allow more time for travel.

Speeding is running neck and neck right now with DUI's as the cause of most fatal crashes in the state.

During the Christmas holiday period, troopers investigated 204 crashes resulting in 7 deaths. Six of those fatalities were not wearing seatbelts. Troopers say buckle up.

Sixty-seven percent of trooper worked fatalities, if the person would have been buckled up or in a car seat they would have survived.

Motorists can expect all hands on deck for the New Year holiday season. Officials from six divisions will be looking for the aggressive driver, distracted drivers and impaired drivers.

“You’re going to get arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. Point blank no questions asked if you're going to risk it, try to drink and drive, you’re going to get caught”

Trooper cook says they intend to really go after distracted drivers in the coming year anyone texting while driving, playing with the radio or doing their hair and makeup. A ticket for that can be 6 points against your license. At 12 points you can lose your license.

They're also pushing to raise the seatbelt fine. Right now if you're caught without one it's only ten dollars. Troopers credit additional grant money from Adeca and Aldot with helping those better patrol highways.