MICHIGAN LAWMAKERS APPROVE AUTOMATED SPEEDING TICKETS IN CONSTRUCTION ZONES

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES FOR SPEEDING IN A WORK ZONE

This Michigan law primarily applies to active work zones, with a priority given to freeways with a speed limit of at least 45. A sign must also be placed a mile before the work zone to alert drivers that they will be entering a stretch of road that is monitored by automatic speed enforcement cameras. 

Motorists who drive faster than the posted speed limit by 10 mph or more in an active work zone where workers are present can face the following penalties: 

• First offense: Written warning 
• Second offense within 3 years of the first: A fine of up to $150
• Third or subsequent offense within 3 years: A fine of up to $300

Instead of vehicle drivers being pulled over and given a ticket on the road, these automated cameras will take a picture and violations are sent through the mail. 

RISKY DRIVING BEHAVIORS CONTINUE UPWARD TREND

The pandemic sparked a rise in dangerous behaviors such as speeding, failing to use seat belts and aggressive driving. Unfortunately, instead of subsiding along with the epidemic, these reckless practices have increased, making Michigan roadways even more dangerous.

Recent crash statistics show a slight decrease in fatal car crashes, from 1,021 deaths in 2023 to 1,012 in 2024. However, the overall picture is far from optimistic, with research showing that excessive speeding was the cause for over 10 percent of the accidents.

In other words, while Michiganders are driving fewer miles, the number of people dying in auto accidents is disproportionately higher.

IMPORTANT HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RECENT MICHIGAN CAR ACCIDENT STATISTICS

Looking at recent crash data can help Michigan residents understand why new laws are being created in relation to high-risk areas like construction zones. These are some of the latest Michigan crash statistics and what drivers should be aware of:

• In 2024, the total number of Michigan car accidents was 288,880
• In 2024, there were 22,260 crashes resulting from speeding
• In 2024, excessive speed was the cause of 177 fatal accidents
• In 2024, there were a total of 6,731 construction zone crashes 
• Construction zone fatalities rose 10 percent, from 21 in 2023 to 24 in 2024
• Teen (ages 13-19) fatalities rose 17 percent, from 66 in 2023 to 77 in 2024
• Motorcyclist fatalities rose 2 percent, from 165 in 2023 to 168 in 2024
• Crashes involving senior drivers (ages 60-85+) rose 3 percent, from 77,013 in 2023 to 79,513 in 2024
• In 2024, the majority of accidents (387,279) involved passenger cars, SUVs or vans
• Fatalities involving alcohol increased 3 percent, from 297 deaths in 2023 to 307 in 2024

Driver behavior can play a big role in preventing a serious accident. That’s why if you or someone you love was in a car accident, it’s important to contact an experienced car accident attorney. 

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED MICHIGAN CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS TODAY

If you or a loved one is injured in a Michigan car accident, we can help. Our experienced lawyers have the skills, knowledge and resources to win the compensation you and your family deserve.

Car accident law is complicated, but finding the right Michigan car accident attorney is simple.

Don’t let the legal clock run out. Start your case today by clicking on the link below or contacting us for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.