The 2020 Memorial Day weekend not only netted a reduction in overall traffic volumes on Virginia highways but also a decrease in traffic deaths, according to the Virginia State Police.

The VSP said reports indicated eight people lost their lives during the four-day, holiday statistical counting period. During the same period in 2019 and 2018, traffic crashes on Virginia highways resulted in 11 deaths.

Of the eight individuals killed this year on Virginia highways, two were riding on motorcycles and one was a pedestrian. The statistical counting period began at 12:01 a.m. May 22 and ended at midnight May 25. VSP responded to 480 crashes statewide during the holiday weekend.

The fatal crashes occurred in Virginia Beach, Caroline, Montgomery, Pittsylvania, Prince William, Rockingham, Southampton and Sussex. The two fatal motorcycle crashes occurred in Pittsylvania and Rockingham. The pedestrian, who was pushing his bicycle when he was struck and killed, was in Sussex.

During ...