Accidents involving pedestrians and bicycles are becoming more common in Michigan

DETROIT – The number of accidents in Michigan overall seems to be trending in the right direction – but not for those who are not in the car.

When you walk around the city like Sam Sekhon and Shicola Burton, it’s not easy to hear that the number of accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists is increasing.

“It’s scary because I train every day. I live down here. So it’s scary. People should have more compassion. Just take their time and stuff,” Shicola said.

“It’s kind of scary to think about it. I never thought about my everyday occurrence,” Sekhon said.

According to Michigan State Police statistics, the number of accidents involving pedestrians has increased by 11%: 2,114 in 2023 and 1,897 in 2022. Unfortunately, the number of pedestrian fatalities has increased by 6%: 183 in 2023 and 173 in 2022. Going through the wrong light is something Shicola sees frequently.

“For me, it’s dangerous. You risk a serious accident,” Shicola insisted.

The number of bicycle accidents has increased by 10%: there were 1,480 accidents in 2023 and 1,340 in 2022. On the positive side, the number of fatal accidents involving bicycles has decreased by 33%: there were 24 deaths in 2023 and 36 in 2022. Sam Faraj sees cars with impatient drivers every day.

“I mean, they’re running red lights, they’re turning, they’re trying to overtake the Q-Line sometimes. So it’s an interesting time,” Faraj added.

In 2023, there were 2% fewer deaths overall: 1,095 were registered this year, compared to 1,123 in 2022.

Read more: 29 statistics on accidents, fatalities and drivers on Michigan’s roads last year