Summer brings more cyclists to Macomb County roads, and recent Michigan crash data shows bicycle crashes remain an important safety concern for both riders and motorists.

What the Data Shows

According to the Michigan State Police 2024 Statewide Traffic Crash Data Year End Report, bicycle-involved traffic crashes increased 20 percent statewide, from 1,480 in 2023 to 1,773 in 2024. Bicyclist fatalities rose 21 percent over the same period, from 24 to 29. August had the highest number of bicycle-involved crashes by month, and Mondays had the highest number by day of the week.

A 2023 Michigan State Police news release noted that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicles under Michigan law, and that motorists and bicyclists can avoid crashes by knowing and following the rules of the road.

When Crashes Happen

According to 2022 Michigan State Police data, the peak hour for bicycle-involved crashes was 4 to 4:59 p.m., while the peak hours for bicycle fatalities were 8 to 8:59 p.m. and 10 to 10:59 p.m. These trends are especially relevant for cyclists and motorists traveling on busy Macomb County roads such as Hall Road, Gratiot Avenue, and Van Dyke Avenue during evening commutes and after dark, when visibility decreases but cyclist traffic often increases.

What Michigan Law Requires

Michigan State Police guidance for drivers includes giving at least three feet when passing a bicyclist, yielding to bicyclists as they would motorists, and using extra caution at intersections, especially when making turns. Guidance for bicyclists includes riding with traffic and obeying traffic signals, using hand signals when turning or stopping, and using a white front light and rear red reflector when riding in the dark.

What This Means If You Were in a Crash

When a bicycle crash involves a motor vehicle, the specific facts of the collision, including whether the driver maintained the required passing distance, whether the cyclist had the right of way, and how each party was operating, may affect what legal options are available. An attorney can evaluate the police report and other available evidence to help identify potential claims.

Michigan’s no-fault insurance system may provide PIP benefits for an injured cyclist’s medical expenses and wage loss through the applicable insurance policy, regardless of fault. Whether additional claims may be available depends on the specific circumstances of the crash.

If you were injured in a bicycle crash anywhere in Macomb County, our team may be able to help. We serve clients throughout Macomb County and the surrounding communities. To speak with a Michigan personal injury attorney, contact us today.

Source: Michigan State Police, 2024 Statewide Traffic Crash Data Year End Report