Car accident fatalities drop over Memorial Day weekend

From the Michigan State Police:

The Michigan State Police (MSP) announced on Wednesday the results of preliminary reports that indicate five people lost their lives in four separate traffic crashes during the 2013 Memorial Day holiday weekend.  In comparison, 10 people died in traffic crashes during the 2012 Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Of the five fatalities, two were known to have used restraints.  Alcohol use was not a factor in two of the crashes and was unknown in the other two fatal crashes.

“These numbers are preliminary and only reflect those fatalities reported to the MSP as of 11 a.m. Monday, May 27, 2013,” stated Capt. Kari Kusmierz, commander of the MSP Training Division.  “The preliminary numbers show a decrease in fatalities from this same holiday period last year.  The MSP continues to urge motorists not to drink and drive, to always use proper restraints and to drive safely.”

The 2013 Memorial Day holiday weekend ran from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2013, through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2013.