With the Fourth of July falling on a Friday this year, Virginia is bracing for one of the busiest travel weekends of the summer. Traffic is expected to be heavy, and the Virginia State Police is asking all drivers to stay patient, drive within posted speed limits, and make safety a top priority. Preliminary reports already show 337 traffic-related deaths on Virginia roads this year as of June 30, 2025 — a reminder of the serious risks that come with holiday travel.
Warning
Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police, emphasized the importance of safety for all travelers over the weekend. He noted that roads will be crowded with people heading to vacation spots, backyard barbecues, and fireworks displays. His message is clear: slow down, stay focused, wear your seatbelt, and don’t drive impaired. Everyone deserves to celebrate the holiday and make it home safely.
Seatbelts
A major change in Virginia law just took effect this week. Now, every passenger in a vehicle — regardless of their age or seating position — must wear a seatbelt. This is a critical step forward in traffic safety. Seatbelts save lives, and with more cars on the road for the July 4th weekend, it’s more important than ever that everyone buckles up.
Drinking
If your holiday plans include alcohol, plan ahead. Don’t drive. Use a rideshare app, taxi service, or public transportation. You can also assign a sober driver before the party even begins. Party hosts are encouraged to offer non-alcoholic drinks and ensure that no guest drives away while impaired. Simple choices can prevent deadly consequences.
Patrols
As part of its annual July 4th enforcement effort, Virginia State Police will take part in Operation CARE (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort). This nationwide program is aimed at reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities due to speeding, impaired driving, and failure to wear seatbelts.
The 2025 statistical enforcement period starts at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 6. Virginia troopers will increase their patrol presence across the state, with added focus on July 3 and July 6 — predicted to be the busiest travel days.
Stats
Looking back at last year’s numbers highlights just how important enforcement is during this time. In 2024, during the five-day Operation CARE initiative:
- 95 drivers were arrested for DUI
- 4,044 speeding citations were issued
- 1,868 drivers were cited for reckless driving
- 574 people were ticketed for not wearing seatbelts
- 191 citations were issued for improperly secured children
- 423 violations of the hands-free phone law were recorded
- 1,027 traffic crashes were investigated
- 1,011 stranded or disabled motorists were assisted
- 10 people lost their lives in crashes
These numbers reflect the risks of holiday travel and the ongoing effort by police to prevent more tragedies on the road.
Virginia State Police urge everyone to stay safe, stay sober, and stay buckled this July 4th. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the beach, or just a family picnic, smart choices behind the wheel can make all the difference.
FAQs
Do all passengers need seatbelts now?
Yes, Virginia now requires seatbelts for all passengers, front and back.
When does Operation CARE begin?
It starts at 12:01 a.m. on July 3 and ends July 6 at 11:59 p.m.
How can I avoid a DUI charge?
Use a sober driver, rideshare, or public transportation if drinking.
What are the top violations during July 4?
Speeding, DUI, reckless driving, seatbelt and phone use violations.
Is July 4th weekend a dangerous time to drive?
Yes, it’s one of the busiest travel times with high crash risks.
