Nine Killed in 2012 Memorial Day Crashes Throughout Virginia | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Memorial Day weekend means lounging poolside, grilling burgers and enjoying time with family and friends. Unfortunately, holiday weekends too often also mean traffic accidnents icrease. In fact, nine people were killed in as many accidents this year over the three day weekend.

Police report that seven drivers and two passengers were killed in crashes in Augusta, Bath, Alleghany, Bedford and Washington counties during the long weekend of May 25-28, 2012. The Combined Accident Reduction Effort, or CARE, had more troopers on patrol than ever in hopes of curbing speeding that leads to accidents. Still, fatal accidents occurred.  In at least eight of the crashes, victims had not been wearing seat belts. Overall, officers investigated 666 crashes. They arrested 138 impaired drivers.

Virginians actually fared better than the previous year. But even though fatal crashes decreased, the numbers put in perspective just how many people put their lives on the line by simply taking to the road over the holiday weekend.

What is so shocking to us as Virginia personal injury and wrongful death attorneys is how many people still drive without buckling up. Who knows how many injuries and fatalities might have been prevented had the victims been wearing their seat belts?

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, consider speaking with one of our experienced injury lawyers. While we cannot take every case, we offer free, initial confidential consultations. Call us at (833) 997-1774.

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