Early findings show that there was a sharp decrease in fatalities during the 4th of July holiday period this year compared to 2017. The Michigan State Police say preliminary reports show four people lost their lives in three separate traffic crashes. Three out of the four fatalities were pedestrians. Alcohol was not believed to be a factor in any of those incidents.

“These numbers are preliminary and only reflect those fatalities reported to the Michigan State Police as of 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 5. We continue to urge motorists to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and give both pedestrians and bicyclists plenty of room on the roadways. Never operate a vehicle while impaired on alcohol or drugs, and avoid all distractions.” - Spl/F/Lt. Jim Flegel, MSP Traffic Safety Specialist.

In contrast, 14 people lost their lives last year in 14 separate crashes in 2017, but last year was a four-day Fourth of July holiday weekend spanning Saturday through Tuesday. The 2018 Fourth of July holiday ran only Tuesday to Wednesday.

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