MSP Report Decrease in Traffic Fatalities During 2012 Lifesaver Holiday Weekend

The Michigan State Police (MSP) have confirmed that preliminary reports indicate four people lost their lives in four separate traffic crashes during the 2012 Lifesaver holiday weekend. In comparison, eight people died in eight separate traffic crashes during the 2011 Lifesaver holiday weekend.

The 2012 Lifesaver holiday weekend ran from 6 p.m. on Friday, December 21st through midnight on Sunday, December 23rd.

Alcohol was a know factor in three of the four fatal crashes, and three of the four victims were not using seatbelt restraints.

Captain Kari Kusmierz, commander of the MSP Training Division, state the numbers were only "preliminary" and only reflected what had been reported to them as of 11 a.m. Wednesday. Kusmierz added "event though these preliminary numbers show a decrease in fatalities from the same holiday period last year, the Michigan State Police continues to urge motorists not drink and drive, to always use proper restraints and to drive safely."