Virginia State Police Reported 8 Road Fatalities During July 4th Holiday

Virginia recorded eight fatal highway crashes over the July 4th holiday, up from the seven recorded during last year’s Independence Day.

The Virginia State Police said Monday that four of the eight fatalities involved motorcycle crashes. Two of the victims who died were operating all-terrain vehicles and alcohol was a factor in at least one of the fatalities.

The statistical counting period was from Friday through midnight Sunday. Troopers responded to a total of 566 traffic crashes statewide.

The holiday weekend also meant stepped up patrols.

Called Operation CARE, the patrols resulted in citations for more than 11,710 speeders and more than 2,670 reckless drivers. State police also cited 77 impaired drivers and more than 1,170 people for failing to buckle up themselves or their children.