Monday, July 6, 2009

Tennessee Department of Safety Releases July 4 Holiday Weekend Statistics

NASHVILLE — Preliminary figures from the Tennessee Department of Safety show eight people were killed in traffic crashes on Tennessee roadways during the 78-hour July 4th holiday period.  This is a drop from the 11 fatalities that occurred during the 2008 July 4th holiday weekend.

“While these numbers are still preliminary, we are continuing to see a decline in the number of fatalities during holiday weekends and throughout the year,” said Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell.  “There is no question that the hard work of State Troopers and our law enforcement partners across the state is paying off by saving lives.”

During the 2009 July 4th holiday, which ran from 6:00 p.m., Thursday July 2 through midnight, Sunday July 5, there were 8 fatal crashes that resulted in eight fatalities.  Six of the people killed were vehicle occupants.  One motorcyclist was killed.  One pedestrian was killed.  Two of the fatalities were alcohol-related compared to 3 alcohol-related fatalities in 2008.

“Despite the decline in the preliminary numbers, it is important to point out that four of the people who died over this July 4th weekend were not wearing their seat belt. That’s two-thirds of the vehicle occupants that died,” stated Tennessee Highway Patrol Colonel Mike Walker.  “More than 70 percent of the time in fatal crashes, wearing a seat belt makes a difference between life and death. These victims could still be here today if they had taken the time to follow the law.”

The Tennessee Highway Patrol conducted more than 80 driver license and sobriety checkpoints throughout the state during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.  The THP also teamed up with local law enforcement to conduct simultaneous saturation patrols on interstates and highways.

Preliminary statistics indicate 444 people have died on Tennessee roadways in 2009 compared to 512 fatalities in 2008.  That is 68 fewer people killed this year compared to the same time last year.  It is important to stress; however, that the statistical data for the July 4th holiday weekend (attached) and for 2009 are preliminary and are subject to change due to some delays in reporting.

The Tennessee Department of Safety’s mission is (www.TN.Gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public.  The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.