As daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Michigan transportation and safety officials reminded drivers to exercise caution during low-light hours. Bradley C. Wieferich, State Transportation Director, stated, "Road users need to be alert and eliminate distractions, slow down and fully focus on getting to their destination safely," noting the state’s 3-foot passing law for bicyclists and the prohibition on manual cell phone use while driving, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Alicia Sledge, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, said, "the earlier onset of darkness increases risks for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially during peak travel hours." She added, "We urge all motorists to stay alert, slow down and eliminate distractions because a few extra seconds of caution can save a life," citing University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute findings that pedestrian-related accidents rise in the weeks following the time change, as reported by the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Michigan’s Safe Routes to School program, supported by the Michigan Fitness Foundation, is working with schools and communities to develop safer walking and biking routes for students. The program provides guidance on improving routes and connectivity. Amy Ghannam, President and CEO of the Michigan Fitness Foundation, said, "We encourage motorists to reduce their speed, obey all signs and traffic signals, and be on the lookout for pedestrians and cyclists, especially right before and after school." The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 7,314 pedestrian and 1,166 pedalcyclist crashes nationwide in 2023. In Michigan, 2,281 pedestrian crashes occurred in 2024, resulting in 156 fatalities and 1,809 injuries, while cyclist crashes caused 29 fatalities and 1,369 injuries, as shown in Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, as stated by the Michigan Department of Transportation.
