MSP Reports Decrease in Traffic Fatalities During 2013 Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend

The Michigan State Police (MSP) has announced a decrease in traffic fatalities during the 2013 Thanksgiving Holiday weekend. According to a news release from the MSP, preliminary reports show eight people lost their lives in eight separate crashes. In comparison, nine people died in traffic crashes during the 2012 Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Of the eight fatalities, two were known to have used seat-belts and alcohol was a factor in four of the crashes.

Captain Kari Kusmierz, commander of the MSP Training Division says "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 safety restraints and to drive safely."

The 2013 Thanksgiving holiday weekend ran from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27th through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 1st.