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Springtime Road Trips in Michigan: Top Traffic Violations to Avoid for a Safe Journey

Spring is the perfect time to explore Michigan’s scenic landscapes, from the Great Lakes to the vibrant tulip fields. But before you hit the road, it’s important to be aware of common traffic violations that could turn your relaxing getaway into a legal headache. Understanding Michigan’s traffic laws can help you avoid fines, points on your license, or even worse—an accident or an arrest. Below, we’ll cover the most common traffic infractions and how to avoid them for a hassle-free road trip.

Speeding Violations

Speeding is one of the most common traffic offenses in Michigan, especially as warmer weather brings more travelers onto the roads. Whether you’re cruising along I-75 toward Mackinac Island or taking the scenic M-22 route along Lake Michigan, be mindful of speed limits.

Why it’s a problem: Speeding not only increases the risk of accidents but also results in harsher penalties. Michigan employs a point system, and if you exceed the posted limit, you can quickly accumulate points on your license.

  • 1-5 mph over the limit: 1 point
  • 6-15 mph over: 2 points
  • 16+ mph over: 4 points

Accumulating too many points can result in higher insurance rates and even license suspension. Always follow posted limits and adjust your speed for weather and traffic conditions.

Distracted Driving

Texting or using a handheld device while driving is illegal in Michigan. The state has strengthened its laws in recent years to curb distracted driving-related accidents.

What you need to know: Law enforcement officers are cracking down on distracted drivers. If you’re caught texting or using a phone without hands-free technology while driving, you could face fines and points on your license.

Michigan’s roads are especially dangerous in the spring, with more cyclists and pedestrians out enjoying the weather. Keeping your focus on the road is critical for the safety of everyone.

Drunk Driving (OWI)

The state takes Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) very seriously. Michigan’s legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, and for commercial drivers, it’s 0.04%. If you’re under 21, you can be charged with a zero-tolerance violation at just 0.02% BAC.

Consequences of an OWI:

  • Fines and court costs
  • License suspension
  • Points on your driving record
  • Potential jail time for repeat offenses
  • Increased car insurance premiums

Spring means road trips, and for many, that includes stopping at local breweries or wineries. If you plan on drinking, always have a designated driver or use a rideshare service to avoid legal trouble.

Reckless and Aggressive Driving

Michigan law defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with "willful or wanton disregard" for others’ safety. This includes excessive speeding, tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes, and road rage incidents.

Penalties:

  • First offense: Up to 93 days in jail and $500 in fines
  • Second offense: Up to 1 year in jail
  • License suspension and possible vehicle impoundment

Springtime brings increased traffic, and frustration can boil over quickly. Stay patient and avoid engaging in aggressive driving behaviors to ensure a smooth road trip.

Failure to Yield Violations

Intersections can become dangerous when drivers fail to yield properly. Michigan law requires yielding when merging, at stop signs, and at pedestrian crossings.

Common situations where failure to yield leads to accidents:

  • Merging onto highways without checking blind spots
  • Rolling through stop signs instead of coming to a complete stop
  • Failing to yield to cyclists and pedestrians at crosswalks

If you are found at fault for causing an accident due to failure to yield, you could be held liable for damages and legal penalties.

Driving with an Expired License or Registration

With busy schedules, it’s easy to forget about license and vehicle registration renewals. However, driving with an expired license or registration can lead to fines and headaches that can ruin your road trip.

Potential penalties:

  • Fines ranging from $100 to $500
  • Impoundment of your vehicle in some cases
  • Possible court appearance

Before heading out on your trip, double-check your driver’s license expiration date and ensure your vehicle registration is up to date.

Seat Belt Violations

Michigan has a strict seat belt law requiring all front-seat passengers and those under the age of 16 to wear a seat belt. If you’re caught without one, you could face a fine.

Law enforcement officers also conduct seat belt enforcement campaigns, especially during peak travel seasons. Buckling up takes just a few seconds and can save your life in an accident.

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