I-94 Crash Data Proves Greater Accident Risk in Van Buren County
For several years, Michigan has been listed as a “Deadliest State” for snow and ice-related traffic fatalities by SafeWise, an organization that analyzes the number of fatal car crashes due to cold weather using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s crash data. In 2017, Michigan was ranked as the No. 6 deadliest state. Michigan interstates play a large role in contributing to those numbers. In fact, recent data from Michigan State Police shows Interstate 94 between Hartford and Kalamazoo is one of the most dangerous stretches of interstate in Michigan, a fact most residents aren’t surprised by. The data shows from November 2017 to March 2018, twice as many crashes occurred on I-94 between Kalamazoo and Hartford than between the Indiana state line and Hartford. MSP says crashes involving semi-trucks are very common on I-94 in Van Buren County during the winter months when black ice can form quickly.
If you find yourself on any Michigan interstate this winter, in particular I-94 in Van Buren County, prepare by practicing these safe driving behaviors to help curb accidents statistics in 2019.
4 Interstate Driving Behaviors That Could Save Your Life This Winter
Despite the many weather-related factors that are truly out of our operating control, we each make driving decisions that could impact our interstate safety, especially during the winter months. Interstate driving accidents often occur in the cold weather season because drivers are traveling too fast for conditions OR they are following the vehicle in front of them too closely. Normal following distance for dry pavement conditions (3-4 seconds) should be doubled or even tripled during winter weather conditions. Here are some interstate driving tips, in addition to our regular winter driving lessons, to keep you safe this season:
- When traveling any Interstate, it is advisable to stay in the lane cleared most recently.
- Passing or changing lanes should be avoided because crossing over the built-up snow or ice between lanes can result in a loss of control of the vehicle.
- Braking should be done gently as it can suddenly cause wheels to lock up, resulting in a skid or a full loss of control.
- Stay alert, sober and not distracted, and off your phone. And pay close attention to drivers and hazard lights ahead of you.
Black ice has been reported to build rather quickly causing winter interstate accidents to happen within just a few drops in the temperature. You may be able to avoid another driver who has lost control if you recognize the risk and act early. That said, if you are about to collide with another vehicle or object, you are probably safer in most cases if you attempt to steer around the object while braking very gently vs. trying to stop quickly.
Stay safe this winter and let us know if you think the Offices of Lee Steinberg can help raise awareness regarding a dangerous Michigan roadway like I-64 in Van Buren County.
Injured in an Interstate Driving Accident This Winter?
If yes, we don’t have to tell you about the difficulties of recovering from a serious accident or the impact on your life from caring for an injured loved one. We know you understand far too well how hard it can be to heal or be a care-taker while ensuring your whole family is cared for physically, emotionally, and financially. The Michigan auto accident attorneys at the Offices of Lee Steinberg understand these things as well, and we have a long history of representing vulnerable clients.
Our greatest satisfaction comes from winning or settling a case and knowing our clients’ can rest easier while their medical care, lost wages, and other expenses are being taken care of. If you’ve been in a winter driving accident on a dangerous Michigan road, contact us today for your FREE consultation or call us at 1-800-LEE-FREE.
