Six people died in crashes on Virginia roadways over the Labor Day holiday, and seat belt use was a factor in the fatalities, according to State Police.
In three of the crashes, the victims were not wearing seatbelts. In a fourth crash, it could not be determined if the victim was restrained.
The two other crashes involved motorcycles.
In Virginia, a new law went into effect on July 1 requiring everyone in a vehicle to wear a seat belt, regardless of age or seat position. Previously, only those seated in the front seat, or under the age of 18, were required to buckle up.
“Wearing a seat belt can save your life, and now, the law requires for all occupants,” said Col. Matthew D. Hanley, superintendent of the Virginia State Police. “We want Virginians to have a safe fall and wearing a seat belt is one of the best ways to protect yourself while on the road.”
As part of the nationwide, state-sponsored Operation C.A.R.E., Crash Awareness Reduction Effort, VSP had all available troopers and supervisors on patrol during the holiday weekend.
During the statistical counting period, Virginia State Police troopers cited:
- 3,018 drivers for speeding
- 1,370 drivers for reckless driving
- 62 people were charged with driving under the influence
- 499 seat belt violations
- 116 child restraint violations.
In total, troopers worked 767 crashes. The fatal crashes occurred in the cities of Alexandria, Chesapeake (two), Lynchburg, Norfolk and Frederick County.
Related stories
- Alexandria | One dead after Cadillac strikes exit sign, goes airborne
- Norfolk | Teen motorcyclist dead in Sunday-afternoon crash, per police
- Frederick County | Middletown man dead in roll-over crash on I-81
Funds generated from summonses issued by Virginia State Police go directly to court fees and the state’s literary fund, which benefits public school construction, technology funding and teacher retirement.
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Crystal Graham
