Michigan drivers love their expressways, whether heading Up North, commuting to work, or cruising to a concert in Detroit. In a response to traffic patterns, Michigan has approved a speed limit increase from 70mph to 75mph on 600 miles of interstate highways in rural areas, and an increase from 55mph to as high as 65mph for 900 miles of trunk line highways. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Michigan State Police (MSP) conducted traffic and safety studies to identify stretches of highway where 85% of drivers already travel safely at increased speeds.  When the increase takes effect, Michigan will have the highest posted speeds of any of the Great Lakes states, but MDOT reports that many of the state roads where motorists are driving the fastest are not eligible for higher speed limits.

With an increase in speed, comes the increased risk of injury, which has many concerned.  Faster driving speeds give drivers less time to perceive dangers on the highway and safely react. When Michigan previously raised limits from 55mph to 65mph in 1987, fatal crashes increased nearly 20%. With the advent of cell phones and other distractions for drivers since the previous speed limit increase, there is a concern that this new boost in speeds will have an even deadlier effect.

Under the new law, trucks and school buses would be allowed to travel at the new 65 mph limit. School buses are not required to have seat belts, and opponents to the increase worry that there is no added protection for crashes at the higher rates of speed. The weight and speed of a semi-truck or tractor trailer makes it dangerous, but coupled with sleep-deprived drivers, faster speeds and deteriorating roads, motorists can face deadly risk.

At Harris Law , we fight for the rights of the injured. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an auto accident , you owe it to yourself to get expert advice as soon as you can. Miranda Bailey-Quick and our caring staff of professionals are responsive, prepared, and aggressive in meeting your needs. At Harris Law , we take the time to listen to your concerns, discuss desired resolutions and answer your questions. We are  located in Gaylord, Michigan , and provide affordable and effective legal services to Otsego, Crawford, Kalkaska, Oscoda, Roscommon, Ogemaw, Iosco, Emmet, Montmorency, Cheboygan, Chippewa, and Mackinaw Counties. Call us today at 231.347.4444 or fill out the free consultation form in the sidebar to get the counsel you need and the attention you deserve.