Michigan has averaged over 270,000 traffic crashes each year since 2020. This is a startling statistic for anyone on the road – especially for parents of teenagers who may be driving independently for the first time.
At Femminineo Law, we take safe driving seriously. That’s why we started David’s Driving Edge – a resource to help keep drivers confident, informed, and protected on the road.
In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the available statistics on Michigan traffic crashes and leave you with some tips to avoid serious accidents.
Who
Population
Of the 288,880 crashes that occurred in 2024, over 570,000 people were involved. That means nearly 6% of the population in Michigan was involved in an auto accident that year.
Gender
Across the board, regardless of age or type of accident, men were involved in more accidents than women. This is especially true regarding fatal accidents, where men accounted for about 71% of fatalities.
Age
Young, inexperienced drivers accounted for a high number of accidents. In 2024, 45,169 crashes involved young drivers (16-20 years-old).
Drivers over the age of 60 also accounted for a high number of crashes. 79,513 accidents in 2024 involved seniors (60+ years-old).
What
Of all the accidents caused in 2024, an overwhelming majority involved passenger cars, SUVs or vans. Second following cars, SUVs and vans, were pickup trucks, which accounted for nearly 12% of total vehicles involved in accidents.
As far as those other means of transportation are concerned, trucks and buses accounted for another large percentage of total accidents (3.4%), followed by motorcycles (.6%), and small trucks (under 10,000 lbs.) (.4%).
When
Rush hour was the worst time for accidents in 2024, with over 22% of accidents occurring between 3:00 and 5:59 PM.
Friday saw the most crashes and Saturday saw the most fatal crashes.
October and November were the months in which the most crashes happened, which makes sense given the fewer hours of daylight and volatile road conditions. Surprisingly however, the months in which the most fatal crashes happened were not during the winter when roads are icy and slick, but during August and May.
Regardless of time of day, week, or year, it is always important to be alert and practice safe driving habits. For more information on how to stay safe behind the wheel, check out David’s Driving Edge – our free resource dedicated to educating drivers and promoting roadway safety.
Where
Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties experienced the highest number of crashes in Michigan. This comes as no surprise, as they are the state’s three most populous counties.
In terms of roadway type, most crashes occurred on city streets, followed by M route highways and interstate route highways.
It may come as a surprise, but most accidents happened on dry, paved roads. While wet and icy conditions certainly increase driving hazards, the sheer number of crashes on dry roadways serves as an important reminder that safe driving habits matter in every condition. Regardless of the weather or road surface, staying alert and focused behind the wheel is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of being involved in a crash.
Why
Of all the “crash indicators” included in the 2024 Michigan State Police Traffic Crash data, deer involved accidents were by far the most prevalent. 58,324 accidents were reported to have been the result of deer collisions in 2024.
Trucks and buses were the next most significant indicator, with 15,888 truck / bus involved crashes being reported, followed by distracted driving, with 14,439 distracted driver-involved crashes being reported.
Beyond these indicators, Michigan State Police breaks down recorded accidents in terms of “hazardous actions” that contributed to each. Of these actions, the three most prevalent were “unable to stop”, “failing to yield”, and “speed too fast”.
What to Do if You’re Involved in an Accident
If you’re involved in an accident, the steps you take afterward are crucial. Following the correct course of action protects your health and your ability to recover compensation.
- Receive medical attention. Check for injuries and make sure all of your passengers are okay. If anyone is injured, seek medical attention immediately.
- Report the accident to police. A police report serves as your first official documentation of the crash and can play a vital role in any potential insurance claims.
- Document the accident scene. Take thorough photos and videos of the accident scene. Be sure to capture the vehicles involved in the crash, injuries to you or your passengers, road conditions at the time of the crash, and any posted traffic signs near the scene.
- Exchange information with the at-fault driver. Be sure to get their name, phone number, insurance information, and driver’s license number.
- Exchange information with witnesses. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Their testimony can be extremely helpful in proving your insurance claim.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident. Starting a claim early can help avoid delays and denied coverage.
- Contact an experienced Michigan auto accident attorney. An attorney can help you initiate a claim, negotiate with insurance, and maximize your financial recovery.
Tips to Avoid Auto Accidents
“We’ve all seen what happens after a crash,” said David Femminineo, founder and personal injury attorney at Femminineo Law. “For us, the real win is helping you avoid an accident in the first place.”
Here are some safety tips to help you stay proactive and reduce the likelihood of a serious accident:
- Put your phone away. Texting, checking notifications, or even changing your music can present distractions that often lead to accidents.
- Leave plenty of following distance. Maintain at least a three-second gap behind the vehicle in front of you. Increase that distance in rain, snow, or heavy traffic.
- Watch your speed. Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of crashes. Always obey posted speed limits and adjust your speed for road and weather conditions.
- Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a collision.
- Stay alert at intersections. Many serious crashes occur at intersections. Look both ways before driving through one, even when you have the right of way.
- Use your turn signals. Signaling your intentions gives other drivers time to react and helps prevent collisions.
- Never drive impaired. Alcohol, drugs (including some prescription medications), and fatigue can all significantly affect your ability to drive safely.
- Adjust for Michigan weather. Rain, snow, ice, and fog require slower speeds, increased following distances, and extra caution.
- Check your blind spots. Mirrors don’t show everything. Always glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.
- Keep your vehicle maintained. Regularly inspect your tires, brakes, windshield wipers, and lights to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.
- Drive defensively. Always assume other drivers might make mistakes, avoid aggressive driving, and expect the unexpected.
- Stay focused on the road. Avoid eating, applying makeup, and other distractions while driving. Keeping your full attention on driving can make all the difference.
While no one can completely eliminate every risk on the road, practicing safe driving habits can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a crash.
Michigan Auto Accident Statistics FAQs
Where Can I Find Statistics on Auto Accidents in Michigan?
Michigan State Police releases a report on traffic crash facts annually. 2024 is the most current year available.
How Many Crashes Happen Per Year in Michigan?
From 2020 to 2024, Michigan averaged around 270,000 accidents per year. In 2024, 288,880 auto accidents occurred in our state.
What Type of Vehicle is Most Common Involved in Accidents?
Cars, SUVs, and vans were the most common type of vehicle involved in accidents in Michigan in 2024. Pickup trucks were the next most common type of vehicle.
When Do Most Accidents Occur?
Accidents most commonly occur during rush hour (3:00 to 5:59 PM) in Michigan. Friday saw the most accidents when compared to any other day of the week in 2024.
Why Do Accidents Happen?
In 2024, the most common hazardous actions that led to accidents were “unable to stop”, “failing to yield”, and “speed too fast”.
Talk to a Michigan Auto Accident Attorney
Michigan State Police provides detailed statistics on the accidents that happen in our state every year. Familiarizing yourself with these statistics can help you be more prepared the next time you are on the road. Additionally, practicing safe driving habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of being involved in a serious accident.
If you or a loved one were in an accident, the team at Femminineo Law can help. We’ll assist you with starting an insurance claim, preserve evidence, and ensure that every available cent of compensation is realized.
Give us a call at 855-65CRASH or schedule a free consultation.
Get David. Get Paid.