Revolutionary Wrong-Way Detection System Reduces Crashes on Michigan Highways
While wrong-way crashes are on the rise across Michigan, one major highway is defying this trend. Since the implementation of new wrong-way detection systems on US 131 in Grand Rapids, the number of crashes has plummeted by over 50%, according to state transportation officials.
In 2023, nearly two dozen new “wrong-way” detection systems were installed along a stretch of US 131 between M-11 (28th Street) and Ann Street in Grand Rapids. This initiative cost approximately $200,000, which included a $92,000 federal grant.
The innovative technology is mounted on existing “wrong way” and “do not enter” signs. When a driver mistakenly enters the wrong ramp, the system activates flashing lights and cameras. These lights serve as an immediate warning to the driver, while simultaneously alerting law enforcement.
“We selected this section due to its high traffic volume and the concentration of bars and restaurants, where people may be under the influence,” explained John Richard, communications representative for the Grand Region of the Michigan Department of Transportation. “The majority of these crashes typically involve impaired drivers.”
Since the installation of the detection systems, there has been a remarkable 61% reduction in the number of drivers entering the wrong ramp, alongside a 54% decrease in crashes, as reported by MDOT.
“They’ve proven to be effective,” Richard noted. “We have video evidence showing individuals entering the ramp incorrectly, and upon seeing the flashing lights, they turn around. This is very encouraging and effective.”
These detection systems are not limited to Grand Rapids; they can also be found on I-194 in Battle Creek, with plans for several installations in Metro Detroit on M-10, I-375, I-75, and I-696.
“Safety is paramount for MDOT, and wrong-way detection devices are a valuable tool for improving safety for all road users,” stated Michele Muller, MDOT’s manager for connected, automated vehicles and electrification. “While installation will take time and funding, combined with increased driver awareness, this technology has the potential to save lives.”
Wrong-way crashes up statewide
Despite the success of these systems in Grand Rapids, wrong-way crashes have surged statewide in recent years.
In 2022, Michigan recorded 407 wrong-way crashes, resulting in 10 fatalities, according to Michigan State Police data. The following year saw an increase to 420 crashes and 19 fatalities, and in 2024, the numbers rose again to 445 crashes with 13 fatalities.
This issue is not confined to Michigan; nationally, fatalities due to wrong-way driving have also increased. In 2018, there were 445 fatal wrong-way crashes, a number that surged to 704 by 2022, according to the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration.
Experts have identified a correlation between wrong-way driving and impairment. “We found three common factors in wrong-way crashes: alcohol impairment, older age, and driving without a passenger,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you’re driving, do not drink. If you plan to drink, ensure you have a safe ride home.”
Despite the rise in wrong-way crashes in Michigan, alcohol-related incidents have decreased from 9,078 in 2020 to 8,542 in 2024, while drug-involved crashes have also seen a decline from 3,040 to 2,315.
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This story was originally published by Bridge Michigan and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.
Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Topics
Michigan
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While wrong-way crashes are on the rise across Michigan, one major highway is defying this trend. Since the implementation of new wrong-way detection systems on US 131 in Grand Rapids, the number of crashes has plummeted by over 50%, according to state transportation officials.
In 2023, nearly two dozen new “wrong-way” detection systems were installed along a stretch of US 131 between M-11 (28th Street) and Ann Street in Grand Rapids. This initiative cost approximately $200,000, which included a $92,000 federal grant.
The innovative technology is mounted on existing “wrong way” and “do not enter” signs. When a driver mistakenly enters the wrong ramp, the system activates flashing lights and cameras. These lights serve as an immediate warning to the driver, while simultaneously alerting law enforcement.
“We selected this section due to its high traffic volume and the concentration of bars and restaurants, where people may be under the influence,” explained John Richard, communications representative for the Grand Region of the Michigan Department of Transportation. “The majority of these crashes typically involve impaired drivers.”
Since the installation of the detection systems, there has been a remarkable 61% reduction in the number of drivers entering the wrong ramp, alongside a 54% decrease in crashes, as reported by MDOT.
“They’ve proven to be effective,” Richard noted. “We have video evidence showing individuals entering the ramp incorrectly, and upon seeing the flashing lights, they turn around. This is very encouraging and effective.”
These detection systems are not limited to Grand Rapids; they can also be found on I-194 in Battle Creek, with plans for several installations in Metro Detroit on M-10, I-375, I-75, and I-696.
“Safety is paramount for MDOT, and wrong-way detection devices are a valuable tool for improving safety for all road users,” stated Michele Muller, MDOT’s manager for connected, automated vehicles and electrification. “While installation will take time and funding, combined with increased driver awareness, this technology has the potential to save lives.”
Wrong-way crashes up statewide
Despite the success of these systems in Grand Rapids, wrong-way crashes have surged statewide in recent years.
In 2022, Michigan recorded 407 wrong-way crashes, resulting in 10 fatalities, according to Michigan State Police data. The following year saw an increase to 420 crashes and 19 fatalities, and in 2024, the numbers rose again to 445 crashes with 13 fatalities.
This issue is not confined to Michigan; nationally, fatalities due to wrong-way driving have also increased. In 2018, there were 445 fatal wrong-way crashes, a number that surged to 704 by 2022, according to the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration.
Experts have identified a correlation between wrong-way driving and impairment. “We found three common factors in wrong-way crashes: alcohol impairment, older age, and driving without a passenger,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “If you’re driving, do not drink. If you plan to drink, ensure you have a safe ride home.”
Despite the rise in wrong-way crashes in Michigan, alcohol-related incidents have decreased from 9,078 in 2020 to 8,542 in 2024, while drug-involved crashes have also seen a decline from 3,040 to 2,315.
___
This story was originally published by Bridge Michigan and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.
Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Topics
Michigan
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Get the insurance industry’s trusted newsletter
