SEMCOG Releases Traffic Crash and Fatality Report, Urges Safety
(SEMCOG Press Release, April 29,2014)
The number of traffic crashes in Southeast Michigan increased by more than four percent in 2013 compared with the previous year, according to an analysis of traffic crash data by SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.
Traffic Crashes, 2009-2013
The total number of crashes in Southeast Michigan in 2013 was 128,088, compared with 122,832 the year before. The totals from the seven-county Southeast Michigan region represent over 44 percent of statewide crashes and over 41 percent of fatalities and serious injuries in the state.
While the number of fatal crashes in Southeast Michigan remained the same, the number of fatalities increased slightly. There were 363 people killed in 340 crashes in the region in 2013, compared with 361 people in the same number of crashes in 2012.
In 2013, the State of Michigan saw a five percent increase in total crashes (289,061) compared to the previous year (273,891), as well as an increase in the number of traffic fatalities (951 in 2013, a two percent increase) compared with 2012.
Although the region did experience an increase in overall fatalities, decreases did occur in several of the crash types listed in the table below in 2013 compared to 2012:
While crashes involving bicyclists in Southeast Michigan remained the same, these crashes increased across the state. Crashes 
involving pedestrians increased in both the region and state.
Ten years of traffic crash data (2003-2013) are available through interactive databases and mapping applications on SEMCOG’s website.
“As the weather starts to warm, more people will be driving, riding bikes, and walking,” notes SEMCOG Executive Director, Kathleen Lomako. “These statistics are a reminder that we all need to be vigilant.”
A safe transportation system helps maximize the movement of people and goods. SEMCOG works with various safety partners to improve traffic safety by increasing education and enforcement. With that in 
mind, SEMCOG recommends these safe driving tips:
- ~Don’t drink and drive.
- ~Don’t text and drive.
- ~If you’re impaired, call a taxi, sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.
- ~If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact local law enforcement.
- ~If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.
- ~Always make sure you and your passengers are properly secured with seat belts or in the appropriate car seat or booster.
Traffic crash data used in SEMCOG’s analysis were received from the Michigan State Police, Criminal
Justice Information Center (CJIC).
SEMCOG is the only organization in Southeast Michigan that brings together all governments to solve regional challenges and enhance the quality of life for the seven-county region’s 4.7 million people.
