A study by Michigan State University for the State Police shows seatbelt use has decreased by about 2 percent since 2019.
Michigan roads
Posted inMichigan Government
Which judges, courts impose harshest penalties for drunk driving in Michigan?
Use these maps and tools to find out which judges — and courts — are more likely to pursue driving while intoxicated cases, rather than a lesser charge of driving while impaired.
Posted inMichigan Government
Drunk driving penalties in Michigan vary depending on where you live
Michigan had 26,700 drunk-driving arrests last year, half of which result in plea deals for impaired driving. Harsher penalties are far more common in west Michigan than in metro Detroit.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan law bans phone use while driving. That’s news to many, police say
A crackdown on distracted driving this week underscores that many aren’t aware of Michigan’s new law banning holding a phone, police say. One driver was working on a laptop. Another drove for miles before noticing police.
Posted inMichigan Government
Carpool lanes coming to Michigan’s I-75
A new law signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer this week puts Michigan on track to have designated carpool lanes for the first time.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan eyes change to pothole claims law after Bridge investigation
Lawmakers push to ensure that drivers seeking damages from potholes on county roads have 120 days to file claims. The bills were filed the same day Bridge published stories showing how the system rarely reimburses motorists.
Posted inMichigan Government
Motorcycle deaths spike since helmets became optional for Michigan adults
Motorcycle deaths rise 34 percent in the decade since Michigan Legislature partially repealed helmet law. Most states also don’t require helmets.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan may bring back its blue and black, retro cool, license plates
For $100, Michigan drivers could adorn their cars with blue ‘Great Lakes’ or black ‘Great Lake State’ plates under new Senate legislation. Money earned would go to fixing Michigan roads.
Posted inMichigan Government
Climate change, bad infrastructure drives away Michigan residents, report says
The Citizens Research Council of Michigan suggests the state should invest heavily in roads and power lines if it wants to jump-start stagnant population.
Posted inMichigan Government
What are the worst potholes in Michigan? Send Bridge your photos.
Bridge has investigated the system for reimbursing potholes, but it favors the state and local agencies. We know potholes are a big problem. Send us photos of the damages.