DRIVING

The decision of when seniors should stop driving is one that many families struggle with.

Conversation about driving revs up on “Live In The D”

The Driving Equality Ordinance bars police from pulling over drivers for minor violations unless the violations pose an immediate danger.

Hands-Free Driving Push.

Some might know it, but there is a rideshare for long distances that exists.

The 4Warn Weather Team is tracking a significant storm that is expected to strongly impact holiday travel.

Vehicles are often retired once they’ve reached 200,000 miles. However, a new study has identified several vehicles that can actually travel much further.

Law enforcement in Monroe County will be on the lookout for speeding drivers during a crackdown initiative through February of next year.

The Road Commission for Oakland County wants to hire part-time drivers seasonal drivers to assist full-time drivers during their winter duties

The AAA is reminding drivers about the dangers of crashes involving deer with their “Don’t Veer for Deer” campaign.

Two construction projects will result in a lane shift on the west side and a road closure downtown through the middle of November.

Are gas credit cards better than regular credit cards when it comes to saving money at the pump?

Three events are planned to help community members learn more about the City of Ann Arbor’s future speed management program.

We sat down with local driving instructor Todd Heck and asked him about the common mistakes young drivers make.

A Roseville woman has been arrested for impaired driving, and child endangerment officials say.

School is back in action in Michigan and that means school buses are back on the road.

Do you know how to drive a vehicle with a stick shift?

We’ve all been there - You’re driving home, and someone cuts you off.

Complaints of speeding drivers are piling up in Harper Woods to the point that the police department is teaming up with Wayne County Sheriff’s Office this week to show that area more attention.

We can dodge potholes. We can drive in the snow. We can make it through rush hour on I-696. And darn it, people are starting to notice.

If you’re hitting the road in Michigan this holiday weekend, your construction headache could find some relief.

There’s renewed talk of a federal gas tax holiday as gas prices remain near record high prices across the country.

Three drivers were arrested and their cars were impounded after the Dearborn police chief looked out his office window and saw them doing dangerous “burnouts” right outside the police station.

Should you be changing your tires when the seasons change? Local 4 put seasonal tires through the Local 4 Trust Index.

More than 30% of deaths involving teen drivers happen during the “100 deadliest days,” a period of time between Memorial Day to Labor Day, according to the AAA.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Consumer Reports on Thursday published their annual list of the safest affordable vehicles for teenage drivers for 2022.

Here's what to do if you haven't received your Michigan auto insurance refund yet.

Michigan officials say that more than $3 billion in auto insurance refunds have been distributed to insured drivers as of Wednesday, just over a week since the deadline to issue such refunds passed.

Michigan State Police, along with a few local police departments, conducted an enforcement zone with a focus on the state’s “Move Over Law” this week on multiple freeways in Metro Detroit.

The popular car seat trade-in program is returning to Target this month.

Authorities say they will be cracking down on noisy drivers in the city of Dearborn in an effort to maintain neighborhood peace.

Michigan State Police and local police departments across the state are participating in a one-day crackdown on distracted driving.

It is a shift in mindset to be an all-electric car owner. Simply forgetting to plug in your vehicle at the end of the day could pose a problem, especially if you don’t have a quick-charge option on your route.

Here's which sidewalks and roads will be under construction this year, according to the City.

The freezing and thawing of Michigan’s winter season is wreaking havoc on the roads once again.

What Mother Nature is bringing to Southeast Michigan this week is already unpleasant, but it also happens to be the perfect storm for potholes.

It’s pothole season in Metro Detroit.

The City of Detroit is asking for the public to share which streets they think officials should put 3,000 new speed humps.

MDOT says it will move ahead with plans to build an innovative interchange at a busy intersection in Madison Heights.

MDOT says it will move ahead with plans to build an innovative interchange at a busy intersection in Madison Heights.

It’s a slow-go on Metro Detroit roads as snow creates slick driving conditions across the area.

If you’ve had too much to drink and are in need of a last-minute ride this holiday season, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is offering free tows to people in Michigan.

Michigan police are looking to combat a rise in fatal crashes by cracking down on speeding drivers.

The Michigan Secretary of State says it has lifted suspensions on more than 150,000 driver’s licenses as part of a new law that took effect last month.

Consumer Reports released their new rankings for car reliability, ranking 28 brands based on how reliable their vehicles are over time.

Michigan drivers will soon be able to select a 2-year option for renewing vehicle registration under new legislation signed Wednesday.

One of the most exciting rites of passage for teens is getting a driver’s license. It can also be one of the most troubling for parents who have concerns about safety. This happens to be National Teen Driver Safety Week, and there is a program called “Strive 4 a Safer Drive” that is dedicated to helping teens make safer driving choices.

At 6 p.m. on Thursday, City of Ann Arbor staff will go over the results of the Lower Town Area Mobility Study and related recommendations.

There have been 4,500 speed humps installed across the city of Detroit and more are expected.

A report compiled by a personal injury law firm found that some of Michigan’s most dangerous intersections in 2020 are right here in Metro Detroit.

Michigan State Police is joining a multi-state effort to crackdown on speeding drivers starting this weekend across the state.

Michigan lawmakers are advancing a package of bills that would ban most cell phone use while driving, as well as increase penalties for doing so.

Street racing and drifting have become somewhat of a rising trend in the city, with multiple videos surfacing of drivers taking over the streets. In one instance, a driver lost control and ran into Ms. Neal’s fence just feet away from her home.

As the Memorial Day holiday approaches, the Southfield Police Department is reminding drivers about the importance of seat belt use.

A man was charged with driving drunk for the sixth time after he struck a Troy mailbox right in front of its owner and lied about being late for work, officials said.

The Southfield Police Department will be hosting an event for new drivers to learn how to be safe on the road.

Several streets in downtown Ann Arbor will temporarily close between 8-9 p.m. to make way for the 43rd annual Take Back the Night Ann Arbor rally and march.

DETROIT – Detroit police said distracted driving was the cause for a vehicle to slam into a semi Thursday. The crash happened on John Kronk Street near Livernois Avenue. Police said the semi was turning in front of the driver when he crashed into it. The driver was taken to a hospital for treatment. MORE: traffic news

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Drivers in downtown Ann Arbor will have to find alternative routes as scheduled road work around North and South Ashley streets will close several streets over the next few months. Ashley Street from Liberty to Huron: March 8 to May 31On Monday, South Ashley Street was reduced to one lane from just south of Liberty Street to Huron Street. Ashley Street at Washington Street: March 8 to March 20Both Ashley and Washington streets leading up to the Ashley and Washington intersection are closed, according to the city. Westbound traffic will travel south on First Street, west on North Street and then south on First Street. Ashley Street from Liberty to Washington: March 11 to March 20AdBeginning at 7 a.m. on March 11, Ashley Street will close from Liberty to Washington Street.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, downtown Ann Arbor drivers will experience longer commutes as traffic over Broadway Bridge is reduced to one lane in either direction. Lanes will be closed between Swift Street and East Summit Avenue for preventative maintenance repairs to the bridge over Depot Street, the Huron River and the Wolverine Line railroad tracks. Access to the Amtrak long-term parking lot located on the east side of the railroad tracks will be maintained. Signage will direct other pedestrian traffic along Broadway to use the opposite side of the street so that the repairs can continue. Related: Island Drive bridge closed through April 30Want to see more Ann Arbor traffic?

DETROIT – Here are safety tips for drivers from Michigan State Police and the Michigan Department of Transportation:If you have to drive, drive slowly and carefullyLet other people know your travel plans, so if you don't reach your destination, people know where to look. The Michigan Department of Transportation emphasizes that this often means driving well below the posted speed limit. AdThe Michigan Sheriff's Association reminds residents that drinking and driving is dangerous and illegal in all seasons. AdDrivers should wash dirt from their vehicles and drive with headlights on for better visibility to other drivers. Attempt to "rock" the vehicle by shifting into drive and giving the vehicle a little gas, then shifting into reverse and accelerating.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office is reminding football fans and community members of the dangers of drunk driving. With the Super Bowl happening on Sunday, the Sheriff’s Office has released tips for staying safe before, during and after the big game on Friday. Remind guests to have a designated driver before the event and to pace themselves, eat food and drink water. Related: Officials plead: Don’t let Super Bowl become superspreaderAdCommunity members that spot drivers under the influence of substances should call 9-1-1, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The WCSO release notes that in 2019, 10,142 people were killed in drunk driving crashes.

Gretchen Whitmer has signed a 20-bill package that aims to shift away from using jail and arrests as punishment for traffic offenses unless someone is a danger to the public. The bipartisan package of criminal justice reform bills resulted from recommendations by the Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration, according to the state. “I’m extraordinarily proud of our collective work over the last two years to understand and improve the criminal justice system,” Lt. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs a 20-bill package aiming to reshape penalties for traffic offenses on Jan. 4, 2020. The bill package aims to shift people away from jail unless they are a danger to the public.

Originally, I was scheduled for court via Zoom, but this time it said to report to the court. Even when someone shows up with phone records to allegedly prove they weren’t texting like the ticket says—they lose the hearing. Almost immediately, the magistrate and officer agree to reduce it to a ticket for double parking, no points and fine of $180 dollars. Colthorp, the officer did not appear, your ticket is dismissed.”(Eyes as big as saucers) “Thank you, ma’am. Also, my next great idea is going to be turning traffic court Zooms into a TV show somehow.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The City of Ann Arbor wants to know how you would improve getting around Lower Town. Community members are being asked to share their thoughts and pre-pandemic experiences as drivers, cyclists, pedestrians and transit users in the Lower Town area, located just north of Broadway Bridge. Currently in the idea generation phase of a mobility study, the city is asking residents to fill out and share a survey to help see how growth has impacted community members who drive, ride, cycle and walk through the area. Questions can be sent by email to Lower Town Study project manager Luke Liu at YLiu@a2gov.org. Learn more about the Lower Town Area Mobility Study here.

LYON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A Lyon Township woman admitted to smoking marijuana and taking prescription drugs before crashing a pickup truck into a mobile home, police said. Police said the caller followed the pickup truck into the Kensington Place Mobile Home Park at 60501 Grand River Avenue. The pickup truck struck a mobile home in the 70 block of Petoskey Street, authorities said. A pickup truck crashed into a Lyon Township mobile home on Dec. 13, 2020. (WDIV)A pickup truck crashed into a Lyon Township mobile home on Dec. 13, 2020.

DETROIT, Mich. – The American Automobile Association claims it has settled who is more aggressive on the road -- the data shows men are more likely to speed, tailgate, drive dangerously and express road rage. Metro Detroiters agree that road rage isn’t worth the risk, but when it comes down to who is more likely to have road rage -- drivers were divided. Data gathered by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety confirms the perception that men tend to speed, tailgate, merge dangerously, and make rude gestures or honk at other drivers more than women. The data also found that younger drivers were more aggressive than older drivers. Regardless of gender or sex, nearly 80% of American drivers demonstrate aggressive behavior behind the wheel -- with speeding topping the list.

Troy police made seven impaired driving arrests over the final 10 days of November. Four women and three men from all around Metro Detroit were involved.

MSP lieutenant believes faster driving during pandemic is factor in Metro Detroit freeway shootingsIf you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.

DETROIT – The City of Detroit announced an expansion of a program to install speed humps in city neighborhoods and slow speed streets. The city started testing the speed hump program in 2018 as a method to reduce speeding and improve safety in city neighborhoods. Now, under Mayor Mike Duggan’s plan, the Department of Public Works will nearly quadruple the number of speed hump installations it performs next year to 4,500, up from the previous high of 1,200 this year. For the 2021 program, the city says it has allocated $11.5 million that will come from state transportation funds, as well planned capital projects that have been reprioritized. “We know this is a priority for residents, so we are making the expansion of this effort one of our highest priorities for the next year.”The 4,500 locations for speed humps will be on streets with a 25 mph speed limit.

Michigan drivers would no longer need a hard copy of a vehicles registration or an annual sticker on license plates under pending legislation. The bill's sponsor testified in a state House Transportation Committee this past week that the change would shorten lines at secretary of state branches and save the state money. The Department of State estimates in the bills analysis that the state could save $500,000 by eliminating the physical requirements of registration. Michigan State Police legislative liaison Sgt. Department of State spokesman Matt Levin said the department opposes allowing financial institutions to provide secretary of state services.

UTICA, Mich. A quick-thinking Utica police officer put his safety on the line by cutting off innocent drivers to get in between them and a wrong-way driver. Officer Jack Currie responded to a wrong-way driver early Tuesday morning on Hall Road in Utica. He said he knew he had time to put himself between that driver and the innocent people heading toward him. Youre trying to intervene and come in between them.Dashcam video shows 20-year-old Lauren Kelsch didnt see the wrong-way driver heading toward her. I just wanted to thank the police officer, Kelsch said.

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. A woman was targeted while driving on the Southfield Freeway and a gunman opened fire into her car. Her family said shes only alive thanks to a Good Samaritan who pulled over to help her. On Sunday, her sister was shot on Southfield Freeway by another driver, leaving her hospitalized. A Good Samaritan was kind enough to stop and call the police. Im gonna be keeping her in our prayers and were going to be just hoping for the best, Finley said.

DETROIT Devonte Andre Burton was charged Wednesday afternoon in connection with a nonfatal shooting on the Southfield Freeway Saturday. According to authorities, just before 6 p.m., officers with the Detroit Police Department and Michigan State Police responded to reports of a shooting on the Southfield Freeway. Authorities found a woman slumped over the steering wheel of their vehicle and rushed the 31-year-old Detroit woman to a hospital. She is expected to survive, due in part because of a Good Samaritan who pulled over to help. Investigation by MSP and DPD led to the apprehension of Burton, a 28-year-old man from Dearborn Heights.

DETROIT – Drivers in Michigan are facing a difficult choice when it comes to auto insurance. New monthly savings options might look attractive, but reduced rates could come with a hefty price for anyone seriously hurt in a crash. Michigan’s unlimited no-fault insurance has previously provided automobile accident victims with lifetime unlimited care for traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. That coverage is no longer required, but crash victims said it can be priceless on the road to recovery. “You have patients that come in requiring total assistance with simple tasks, like bathing, grooming, dressing, brushing their teeth,” Zein said.

DETROIT – Michigan’s new auto insurance law is one many residents have been waiting for because of the lower rates, but there are complex choices drivers have to make. The lower auto insurance rates arrive Thursday (July 2). You’re going to want to look to see if you have what’s called “coordinated coverage.”That’s medical insurance. Liability coverageThe second choice surrounds liability coverage. “It’s taking about 45 minutes to an hour to educate a consumer and let them know their options and make an educated choice,” Shrock said.

Michigan drivers should be able to cut their auto insurance costs starting this week -- but you may need to take action. Michigan lawmakers approved bipartisan auto insurance reform legislation last spring aimed at cutting costs for Michigan drivers who have paid the highest insurance rates in the country. The new law requires that auto insurance agents and auto insurance companies give you forms that describe the benefits and risks of the coverage options. You may also want to talk with an auto insurance agent to discuss your personal auto insurance needs. Michigan auto insurance law video:

Michigan drivers should be able to cut their auto insurance costs starting this week -- but you may need to take action. Michigan lawmakers approved bipartisan auto insurance reform legislation last spring aimed at cutting costs for Michigan drivers who have paid the highest insurance rates in the country. The new law requires that auto insurance agents and auto insurance companies give you forms that describe the benefits and risks of the coverage options. You may also want to talk with an auto insurance agent to discuss your personal auto insurance needs. Michigan auto insurance law video:

BRIGHTON, Mich. Several cities around Metro Detroit are closing downtown streets to drivers and giving restaurants more space for outdoor dining. Right now, officials from Brighton, Ann Arbor, Northville and Plymouth have confirmed plans to close streets for increased dining space. Brighton and Ann Arbor have already began closing streets. Astrid Payapilly, of Ann Arbor, went to Brighton with her husband. Finding parking might be a challenge, but Downtown Brighton is expected to keep its new configuration through Labor Day weekend.

Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services on Monday announced that DIFS Director Anita Fox has ordered all auto insurers in Michigan to issue refunds or premium waivers to consumers as a result of insurance companies reduced risk due to extreme reductions in driving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Michiganders have been staying safe and staying home and they should see the benefit in reduced auto insurance rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Whitmer. Every family is feeling added financial pressure due to this virus, and this order will provide some much-needed relief to drivers.DIFS Order No. Whitmer lifts stay-at-home order across state, reopening restaurants, moreThis order will ensure all insurers are issuing appropriate refunds or premium waivers to their customers, said Fox. Contact DIFS Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 833-ASK-DIFS (275-3437) or by emailing autoinsurance@michigan.gov.

We’re talking about what drives you crazy while driving on ‘What’s the Buzz.’ Joining Tati Amare and Jason Carr are Kila Peeples and Michelle Oliver from Live In The D.They started off with: Do you give people “the stare” if they mess up? Kila shared how she will give someone the stink eye if they misbehave on the road, and Jason thoroughly agreed, saying especially when someone merges in front of you going much slower than you were driving. Kila mentioned slow drivers really get on her nerves and she will say something if they are just crawling along. So, “What drives you crazy while driving?” We asked our Facebook fans that and they had a lot to say. Michelle shared some of them with the group, and you can read them all below.

WILLIAMSTON, Mich. – A man was driving on I-96 when a steel beam crashed through his front windshield last week. The beam got stuck on his steering wheel and he’s still in disbelief by what happened. He said a flatbed truck changed lanes when the steel beam fell off and hit the freeway. A steel beam came just inches from hitting a Michigan man's chest when it crashed through his truck. (WDIV)“It folded the dash and the steering wheel so the piece of steel was sitting on the lip of the dash,” he said.

DETROIT – A man was hit and killed while trying to cross the Southfield Freeway on Monday night in Detroit. He hopped over the median on the freeway near Grand River Avenue and tried to walk across. He was struck by two vehicles just before 7 p.m. on the southbound side of the freeway. While other drivers decided to film the incident on their phones, Angela Potter tried to save him. He was trying to cross the freeway from the east side of the Southfield Freeway (M-39).