RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WGNS) – Rutherford County residents traveling U.S. 70 and nearby roadways experienced a much safer Independence Day travel period this year. Preliminary data from the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) shows just four traffic fatalities across the state during the holiday period—from 6 p.m. July 3 to 5:59 a.m. July 7—down significantly from 18 during the same timeframe in 2024.

During the enforcement period, THP troopers investigated 132 crashes statewide, including 49 crashes with injuries. Troopers also arrested 99 drivers for DUI and assisted 752 motorists.

The lower fatality count follows the launch of the “Safe on 70” campaign, a targeted enforcement and safety education initiative focused on U.S. Highway 70 and surrounding high-crash corridors. The campaign ramped up ahead of the holiday weekend and involved intensified patrols and community outreach in areas like Rutherford County, where Highway 70 and Highway 41/70 are known for high crash rates.

For Rutherford County, the improvement is especially significant. The county’s growing population and busy roadways have historically seen higher numbers of serious accidents during holiday travel periods.

Law enforcement agencies remind drivers to slow down, buckle up, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired. High-visibility enforcement efforts will continue throughout the summer travel season on Rutherford County