Ten people die in vehicle crashes in Virginia during July 4 period

Ten people who were involved in nine crashes died in Virginia over the July 4 holiday extending from Wednesday, July 4, through Sunday, July 8, according to a press release from the Virginia State Police.

The preliminary numbers are four fewer than the 14 people who died during the 2011 Independence Day weekend, according to the press release.

Despite the decrease, traffic deaths are still on the rise in Virginia in 2012. Preliminary numbers show that as of Monday, July 9, 373 people have died in traffic crashes in the Commonwealth compared to 358 on the same date in 2011, according to the release.

Those who died during the latest holiday period ranged in age from 15 to 75 and included a double fatality crash involving a 15-year-old and 17-year-old boy in Wise County.

Two fatal crashes involved motorcyclists in Franklin and Halifax counties who were wearing motorcycle helmets.

A 48-year-old pedestrian died in a crash in Norfolk.

“To see such loss of life is truly discouraging when there are so many ways motorists can protect themselves while driving in our Commonwealth, like simply following the speed limit and buckling up,” said Col. W. Steven Flaherty, the superintendent of the Virginia State Police, in the release. “Drivers and passengers should not let their guard down as it is important to always be vigilant about your safety when you get behind the wheel or ride with someone.”

The other five crashes took place in the counties of Brunswick, Henrico, Madison, Rockingham and Southampton. All those who died were driving their vehicles, and alcohol was a factor in at least one of the traffic deaths and undetermined in two others, according to the release.

 Of the six passenger vehicle crashes, five of those who died weren’t restrained, the release stated.

Troopers arrested 101 impaired drivers and cited 9,193 speeders and 2,596 reckless drivers during the five-day period. The Virginia State Police also wrote 904 safety belt violation citations and 274 child safety seat violation citations and responded to 715 traffic crashes statewide, according to the release.

The Virginia State Police participated in Operation Combined Accident Reduction Effort over the holiday period, a traffic safety initiative that is a state-sponsored, national program that works to reduce crashes, fatalities and injuries caused by impaired driving, speeding and failing to use occupant restraints. The money that comes from summonses issued by state police go directly to court fees and the state’s Literary Fund, which benefits public school construction, technology funding and teacher retirement.

Filed under: CRIME