Study Links Speed Limit Increases in Michigan to Higher Crash Rates
What happened
A 2022 study examined the impact of raising speed limits on rural highways in Michigan. In 2017, the speed limit was raised from 70 to 75 mph on over 600 miles of these rural roads. The study found that total crashes on these roads rose nearly 17 percent, increasing from an average of 3,624 per year before the change to 4,241 annually in 2018 and 2019. Furthermore, the number of fatal crashes increased from roughly 11 per year to 18.
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Why it matters
The findings indicate a correlation between higher speeds and increased road safety risks. The rise in crash frequency and severity raises questions about the balance between travel efficiency and road safety management in the state.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety are collaborating to provide data on road safety issues.
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Who's involved
- MichiganState of Michigan where the speed limit changes and crash data were recorded.
- Insurance Institute for Highway SafetyInsurance Institute for Highway Safety, which contributed to the body of research on road safety.
- Michigan Department of TransportationMichigan Department of Transportation, responsible for road maintenance and infrastructure.
- Michigan Department of Health and Human ServicesMichigan Department of Health and Human Services, which manages public health standards.
- Michigan State PoliceMichigan State Police, responsible for investigating crashes and enforcing traffic laws.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Michigan Department of TransportationSpeculative
The increased crash rates might strain the state budget through higher road repair and maintenance costs.
The rise in crash frequency could lead to higher public health costs and increased demand for medical services.
- Michigan State PoliceSpeculative
Higher crash rates may increase the demand for emergency response and investigation resources.
Keep exploring
Part of
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety are collaborating to provide data on road safety issues.Also in this story
- IIHS experts tested seat-belt systems, while NHTSA monitored international safety standards.
- A study was published regarding autonomous vehicle safety data involving the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Google.
- Waymo crash reports were submitted to NHTSA, prompting the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to study the data.
- Partnership expands safety resources across region as NHTSA identifies vehicle crash risks in the US.
The entities involved
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Michigan
state of the United States of America
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Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
U.S. nonprofit organization
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