We never consider the potential of an automobile accident while we travel Michigan’s highways and interstates. However, the likelihood of such accidents varies based on the routes we select.
The Michigan state highways Interstate 96, Interstate 94, and Interstate 75 are some of the riskiest. While driving defensively is always important, using extra caution and being aware of potential hazards is especially important when using certain thoroughfares.
Understanding the Hazards of Michigan s Roads
The depressing reality of road safety in the state is revealed in the most recent Michigan State Police Traffic Crash Report. Michigan saw an astounding 282,640 collisions in 2021 alone, with 1,131 fatalities and 71,246 injuries. Particularly hard hit was Wayne County, where there were nearly 50,000 collisions overall, 219 fatalities, and 16,662 injuries.
Although major thoroughfares such as I-96, I-94, and I-75 support Michigan’s business sector and act as essential transportation routes, they also present unique risks to motorists. Over 23,388 collisions on interstate highways happened in 2021, with 89 of them turning out to be fatal.
Specifically looking at Wayne County, there were 5,247 reports of property damage, 19 fatalities, 123 serious injuries, 446 minor injuries, and 1,083 probable injuries from interstate incidents that year.
Hazards of Heavy Traffic and Inclement Weather
The risk for drivers is increased by the fact that Interstates 96, 94, and 75 are some of Michigan’s busiest routes, especially in the Detroit area. Because these roads are often used by hundreds of thousands of vehicles, there is a greater chance that you will meet a careless driver and get hurt. Additionally, congested roads make it harder to maneuver, which increases the chance of collisions.
Unfavorable weather increases the risk even further, particularly in Michigan during the severe winters. Roads can become dangerous due to snow and ice, increasing the risk of accidents. The probability of injury accidents might be increased by even a single driver moving too quickly for the current weather conditions.
Dangers of Road Rage and Speeding
Road rage incidents and excessive speeding further jeopardize safety on Michigan’s most dangerous routes. The likelihood of incidents resulting in injuries to other road users is increased when drivers exhibit aggressive driving styles or exceed speed restrictions. Events involving road rage in particular might encourage careless driving, endangering other drivers.
Interstate 94: Michigan s Most Treacherous Road
According to a MoneyGeek research, Interstate 94—which runs from Montana to Michigan—is the state’s most dangerous highway. 2% of all fatal crashes between 2017 and 2019 occurred on I-94, making it a very dangerous highway. Notably, eight fatal crashes occurred during this time on a 4-mile stretch at Detroit Metro Wayne County Airport.
Interstate 96: A Hub of Hazard
Road rage and speeding are two of the state’s most well-known problems on Interstate 96, which runs from downtown Detroit to close to Muskegon. To improve safety, law enforcement often designates specific parts of I-96 for particular enforcement initiatives.
Interstate 75: Danger Along its Length
Interstate 75, Michigan s longest north-south highway, constitutes another hotspot for fatal accidents, particularly in the Detroit area. A 5-mile stretch between I-94 and I-96 is notorious for accidents.
Driving Safely Amidst Danger
Although weather and traffic congestion are major contributors to dangers, driver behavior is a critical component of road safety. Driving while intoxicated, speeding, and weaving through traffic all dramatically increase the likelihood of accidents on Michigan’s highways.
Seeking Justice After an Accident
If you ve suffered injuries in a car accident on Michigan s hazardous highways due to another driver s negligence, seeking legal assistance is crucial. Contact Goodman Acker for a free consultation to pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Stay safe on the road, and remember to drive defensively, especially on Michigan s most hazardous highways.