RICHMOND (WINA) – State Police say fewer people died over the July 4th holiday counting period, but with a caveat… there were fewer days. State Police’s Corinne Geller says 5 people died on the state’s roadways during the counting period that began 12:01am Monday, July 3 and ended at midnight when July 4 turned to July 5. Last year was a 4-day holiday counting period where 10 died, so the ratio comparied to 2022 is the same. Fatal crashes were in Arlington, Buchanan, Charles City, and Craig counties.

She said there’s no data, but troopers are anecdotally saying drivers seem to be aware of the new “move over” law that as of July 1 just doesn’t apply to flashing lights of emergency vehicles on the shoulder… but also broken down motorists with flashing hazard lights or triangles placed behind a vehicle.

Troopers arrested 36 for DUI, and cited 2051 speeders and 980 reckless drivers… and got 124 in violation of the “hands-free” law.