Increased Vulnerability for Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Lansing, MI – While the state of Michigan witnessed a slight decrease in the overall number of crashes in 2023, accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists experienced a surge. The Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center reports a 10% increase in collisions implicating pedestrians and bicyclists.

“Seeing a drop in the overall crash numbers is indeed encouraging, but the rise in incidents involving our most vulnerable road users: pedestrians and bicyclists, raises serious concerns,” said Katie Bower, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP). “This trend emphasizes an urgent need for heightened awareness to safeguard all roadway users.”

An In-depth Analysis of Crash Data

Crashes involving pedestrians went up by 11% in 2023, with a total of 2,114 incidents compared to 1,897 in 2022. Pedestrian fatalities also saw a rise of 6%, with 183 deaths reported in 2023 compared to 173 in 2022. Additionally, bicycle-involved crashes recorded a 10% increase with 1,480 accidents in 2023 from 1,340 in the prior year. Fortunately, bicyclist fatalities witnessed a decrease, falling by 33%, with 24 deaths in 2023 compared to 36 in 2022.

Impact of Michigan’s Hands-Free Driving Law

The law making it illegal to hold or use a cellphone while driving in Michigan took effect on June 30, 2023. With over a year of implementation, drivers can now be pulled over and ticketed for using their phone while on the wheel.

Katie Bower said that this new law has exhibited some positive impact. “Looking at the numbers, we see 305 fewer distracted-driver-related accidents in 2023 (15,136) when compared to 2022,” said Bower. “Yet, we realize a significant task lies ahead as we strive to educate all age groups about the dangers of distracted driving.”

Ensuring Road Safety for All

The increase in pedestrian and bicycle crashes despite the overall reduction in accidents underscores an imperative need to augment safety protocols and foster consciousness among all road users. The statistics indicate a crucial requirement to take proactive steps to deal with distracted driving and ensure that vulnerable road users, particularly pedestrians and bicyclists, are made a priority in Michigan’s road safety discussions.

This data serves as a reminder for drivers to always be alert and mindful of others on the road. Law enforcement agencies are working closely with local communities and safety advocacy groups to promote responsible driving habits and reinforce the significance of traffic rules and regulations for everyone’s safety.