Automobile Safety

Serious Motorcycle Accident Injuries Reported After Repeal of Helmet Law

Legislators in Michigan recently repealed the state’s motorcycle helmet law that required all bikers to wear this vital piece of safety equipment. Now, only riders who are 21-year-old or younger must wear helmets. A new study has shown that this has led to more serious Michigan Auto Accident Injuries when motorcycles are involved.

Data indicates that in the two years prior to the change in law, the average insurance claim on a motorcycle wreck was $5,410. After the law changed, claims saw a 34 percent jump in costs to $7,257. According to an article from WSLS News, this was about … Read More

Safety Tips Offered to Help Prevent Michigan Bicycle Accidents

Approximately 2,000 Michigan Bicycle Accidents were reported last year. These crashes resulted in the loss of 20 lives and left another 1,598 cyclists injured. In an effort to reduce this number, the state of Michigan has announced several campaigns to coincide with National Bike Month during May.

According to an article from the Midland Daily News, state officials have called for motorists to be more aware of cyclists sharing the road and offered several safety tips.

Cyclists should always remember to put on helmets before every ride. They also should ensure their bikes are equipped with reflectors and headlights … Read More

Michigan Seat Belt Use Hits 90 Percent

Automobile seat belt use nationwide has hit an all-time high of 86 percent, according to new safety numbers.

And in Michigan and the 31 other states where it is against the law not to buckle up the compliance rate is 90 percent.

From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

“When it comes to driving safely, one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your family is to use a seat belt,” said [U.S. Department of] Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood….

“Thanks to the ongoing work of our state and local partners and national efforts such as Click it … Read More

Toyota Tacomas in Michigan Are Recalled

Due to a manufacturing error in its Tacoma midsized pickup, auto manufacturer Toyota is recalling 150,000 models. The trucks fall between model years 2001 and 2004. Sold or registered throughout almost two dozen cold-weather states including Michigan, the Tacoma model is being recalled because it has been discovered the spare tire has the potential to fall out.

Reports reveal the plate used to keep the spare tire in place under the truck bed will rust after exposure to road salt. The plate has been known to break resulting in the tire falling out. Apparently, these Tacoma plates were not … Read More

20 Most Dangerous Intersections in Oakland County

What are the most dangerous intersections in Oakland County?

It turns out that the greatest number of car wrecks happen on 12 Mile Road and Southfield Road, according to crash data from the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.

Following are the Top 20 dangerous intersections in Oakland County, listed by the total number of accidents that occurred in 2011 and the average number from 2007-2011:

1. Southfield Rd @ 11 Mile Rd W (64 auto accidents in 2011 – 74.2 average over past 5 years)
2. 12 Mile Rd W @ Orchard Lake Rd (60 – 61.2)
3. 12 Mile Rd @