Even though the national “Drunk Driving: Over the Limit, Under Arrest” campaign for 2011 came to a close after Labor Day, motorists in Alabama are advised to continue safe driving habits. The state’s nine regional highway safety offices and the Alabama Department of Public Safety will continue increased enforcement year-round thanks to $1.9 million in grants awarded by Gov. Robert Bentley.

The funding will help cover overtime expenses for officers, deputies and troopers as they conduct checkpoints and employ other enforcement tactics. Each highway safety office determines when additional enforcement is needed for specific areas.

The governor awarded $75,302 to the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission’s Highway Traffic Safety Division which serves Marengo, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Dallas, Monroe, Washington and Wilcox counties.

“Unsafe and irresponsible drivers pose a danger to every motorist on the road,” said Bentley. “I commend our law enforcement officers for their daily dedication to the safety of Alabama’s residents.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.