VSP to launch ‘Operation C.A.R.E,’ increase patrol for Fourth of July holiday

VIRGINIA ( DC News Now ) — The Fourth of July is just days away and as many get ready to enjoy parties and fireworks, the Virginia State Police (VSP) is reminding drivers to be safe on the roads.

According to state police, the 2024 summer driving season had a deadly start, with preliminary numbers showing 13 deaths over the Memorial Day holiday. In addition, troopers investigated 25 deaths the week after Memorial Day.

“We want to be able to say that this was one of the safest July 4 holiday ever on Virginia’s roads,” said Colonel Gray T. Settle, Superintendent of Virginia State Police. “In order to do that, we are going to need all Virginians to drive sober, avoid distractions, comply with posted speed limits, and buckle up.”

As part of its efforts to reduce deadly crashes on Virginia highways during the holiday, state police will join several law enforcement agencies nationwide for the Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (C.A.R.E). The operation is sponsored by the state and a national program with a mission to reduce crashes, fatalities and injuries due to impaired driving, speeding, and failure to wear a seatbelt.

VSP said the counting period for the 2024 July 4 holiday will begin at 12:01 a.m. on July 3, and end at midnight on July 7. During this time, there will be an increased presence of state police with a specific focus on July 3 and July 7, which are expected to be the busiest travel days.

State police said during the 2023 two-day Operation C.A.R.E on July 4, Virginia troopers arrested 36 drivers for operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs and cited 2,051 speeders and 980 reckless drivers.

In addition, troopers issued 254 citations to individuals for failing to buckle up, and another 74 citations for children not being properly secured.

Last year, VSP investigated 377 traffic crashes across the Commonwealth and assisted 392 disabled drivers. There were seven deadly crashes.

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