Press Release

*Traffic Crash Statistics Highlight Importance of Safe Driving to Keep Auto Insurance Costs Down
**"More than 1,100 Michiganders lost their lives in traffic accidents in 2022, up 15% since 2018"*

*Media Contact:?**Laura Hall*, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]?
*Consumer Hotline:* 833-ASK-DIFS, [email protected] <[email protected]> ?

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:*?August 15, 2023?

(LANSING, MICH) With recent traffic statistics [ [link removed] ] again showing an alarming increase in the number of crashes in the state, Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox is urging Michiganders to drive safely to help save lives and lower costs.

?Consistent with an unfortunate trend we have seen over the last few years, the Michigan State Police has once again reported a significant increase in traffic crashes in Michigan,? said DIFS *Director Anita Fox*. ?We urge Michiganders to slow down, drive safely, and follow all traffic laws to help reduce the risk of accidents and serious injury. Driving safely can also help reduce the risk of serious financial hardship, as vehicle repair and replacement costs remain higher than normal."

Information recently released by the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center shows that, in 2022, Michigan saw increases in several traffic crash statistics, including:


* 4% increase in motor vehicle crashes overall.
* 28% increase in work zone crashes, including a 15% increase in work zone fatalities.
* 4% increase in motorcyclist fatalities.

These trends highlight how important safe driving is to the well-being of Michiganders. In addition, higher than normal vehicle repair, replacement, and rental costs underscore the financial benefits of safe driving.

In addition to driving safely, Michiganders are urged to work with their licensed insurance agent or company to ensure that they have the auto insurance coverage that works best for their situation, budget, and needs. To help Michiganders find licensed insurance agents in their area, DIFS maintains an Insurance Locator [ [link removed] ].

DIFS continues to operate its dedicated auto insurance hotline with calls being answered Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 833-ASK-DIFS (833-275-3437). Drivers can also email [email protected] or visit Michigan.gov/AutoInsurance [ [link removed] ] for more information.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS [ [link removed] ]?or follow the Department on Facebook [ [link removed] ], Twitter [ [link removed] ], or LinkedIn [ [link removed] ].

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