August is a time commonly referred to as the dog days of summer – and for good reason. It’s HOT! With temperatures regularly soaring over 85 degrees, many of us find ourselves wishing away the warm weather that we so patiently waited for all fall and winter.
Despite the heat, August is a very special time for many Michiganders – particularly the devout motor fanatics. The warm weather and clear skies presents a cherished window where car enthusiasts can see and be seen without the fear of weather cramping their style.
On one weekend during late August, our shared love for automobiles culminates in what’s officially known as the world’s largest one-day automotive event – The Woodward Dream Cruise.
In 2025, the Woodward Dream Cruise is celebrating its 30th anniversary – three decades of rumbling engines, gleaming chrome, and a sea of spectators lining the historic stretch of Woodward Avenue. What began as a small fundraising event in 1995 has grown into a global pilgrimage for car lovers, drawing over a million visitors and tens of thousands of classic, custom, and collector vehicles from across North America and beyond.
From Detroit’s deep automotive heritage to the timeless appeal of cruising on a summer night, the Dream Cruise is more than just a car show – it’s a living, breathing tribute to Michigan’s motor city soul. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a perfectly restored muscle car, riding shotgun in a convertible with the top down, or simply standing curbside soaking in the sights and sounds, the atmosphere is electric.
Accompanying this electric atmosphere every year are some unique safety concerns. An exciting evening cruising America’s first concrete highway can quickly take a sour turn with accident hazards running rampant. This blog looks to inform both drivers and pedestrians of how to stay safe at this year’s cruise, as well as explain the optimal course of action if you or a loved one is injured at the event.
Cruising Safe
For an appreciator of automobile design and workmanship, simply being in the presence of a nice ride is enough to elicit a strong emotional response. Thousands of roaring engines, countless gorgeous paint jobs, and collectable editions of every car imaginable is enough to leave any auto enthusiast giddy.
However, this giddiness can quickly turn to rash action and deep regret if you aren’t careful. As tempting as it can be to let it rip and show everyone how loud, fast, and impressive your wheels are, it’s important to remember that the dream cruise takes place on a public road, near businesses, homes, and most importantly LOTS of people! Here are some tips to ensure your 2025 Woodward Dream Cruise is safe and enjoyable!
For Drivers: As someone cruising Woodward during the 30th edition of the Dream Cruise, it’s vitally important to keep the rules of the road in mind. Here are a few essential tips for those showing off their prized rides:
- Be aware of the MDOT Traffic Control Order in effect: On Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, NO commercial vehicles, vehicles exceeding a weight of 10,000 pounds, or vehicles with trailers shall be permissible on Woodward Avenue from 8 Mile Road to the Loop in Pontiac.
- All of the normal laws surrounding drug and alcohol use remain in full effect. Do not drive impaired during the Dream Cruise (or ever).
- Keep your head on a pivot. Be aware of pedestrians at all times, especially at intersections and parking lot entrances along Woodward.
- Maintain low speeds on Woodward.
- Be patient and remain calm if you encounter road rage.
- Keep music at a reasonable level. Citations for loud music are common.
- Avoid performing burnouts, drag racing, or driving recklessly (as always).
- If you don’t plan on cruising – try and avoid Woodward during the weekend of this event.
For Spectators: A big part of the fun of the Woodward Dream Cruise is grabbing some good food, kicking back in a comfy lawn chair, and taking in the spectacle of cars and drivers. Some things to keep in mind while spectating the cruise include:
- Stay alert. Be aware of cars and other pedestrians at all times.
- Only watch from designated spectating areas. Stay away from areas that would normally be off limits, including private property, medians on Woodward, and other restricted areas.
- Maintain a safe distance from main roads while spectating.
- Be careful around running cars, they can move quickly and without warning, sometimes from a complete standstill.
- Hydrate and be wary of staying in the sun for too long.
- All alcohol laws remain in effect – carrying open containers of alcohol in public is not permitted.
Injured?
Getting into an accident is not on anyone’s list of things they want happening to them – especially at an event meant to celebrate the joy that automobiles bring us. Unfortunately, the Dream Cruise leads to a spike in reckless behavior and avoidable accidents every year.
If you get into an accident while cruising Woodward this August, here’s some tips from a personal injury attorney to keep in mind:
Prioritize Safety and Medical Care
- Remove yourself from harm’s way – Get away from crowds and traffic.
- Call 911 if immediate medical attention is required.
- Even if you think your injuries are minor, getting checked out by a medical professional following a crash or slip and fall is a good idea.
Document the Scene
- Take photos and videos of all relevant details – try and capture the state of your car, any other vehicles involved, nearby streets, businesses, and other landmarks.
- Record the exact time, date, and location the accident occurred at.
Gather Information
- Get the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details (if applicable).
- If a business or vendor is involved, make sure to exchange details with the owner or a representative.
Report the Incident
- File a police report – this could prove to be vital to a later insurance claim or lawsuit.
- If the accident occurred on private property – make sure to alert the property owner.
Get David Get Paid
Ultimately, if you were involved in a serious accident (at the Dream Cruise or elsewhere), the most important thing you can do is get yourself a seriously good personal injury attorney – an attorney like David Femminineo.
An experienced injury attorney like David, or any one of the attorneys at Femminineo Law, will greatly aid you throughout the post-accident process. They will help you understand your rights, figure out what your case is with, and obtain the maximum compensation for your pain, suffering, and hardship.
If you or a loved one was injured – do not hesitate – call us at 855-65-CRASH, or visit our website at www.getdavidgetpaid.com today!
Get David, Get Paid.
