Motorist Slightly Injured in Michigan Freeway Patrol Collision
Motorist Slightly Injured in Michigan Freeway Patrol Collision — A driver failed to move over for a stopped Safety Service Patrol unit along northbound Interstate 75 Friday night, striking the parked vehicle and causing only minor injuries, authorities report. According to the Auburn Hills Police Department, the incident occurred just after sunset when a Freeway Courtesy Patrol truck, dispatched to assist a disabled motorist, was rear-ended by another vehicle whose operator did not heed the “move over” law.
Officers shared images of the damaged patrol vehicle on social media, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and changing lanes away from emergency responders. The Freeway Courtesy Patrol, part of the Michigan Department of Transportation’s Safety Service Patrol program, routinely helps clear disabled cars, remove debris, change flat tires, and provide traffic control during accidents. On this evening, the patrol team was already on scene helping a motorist when the collision happened “because the driver failed to move over,” Officer Sarah Mitchell stated.
Both the patrol worker and the motorist who struck the vehicle were transported to a nearby hospital. Fortunately, medical staff confirmed that each suffered only minor bruises and whiplash and were released after evaluation. The at-fault driver has been cited for violating Michigan’s “move over, slow down” statute, a law designed to protect roadside assistance crews and emergency personnel by requiring motorists to vacate the lane closest to stopped vehicles or significantly reduce their speed.
Compensation at Stake and How We Can Help
Victims of crashes involving roadside assistance vehicles often face unexpected medical expenses, lost income due to time off work, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. In addition, indemnification for property damage—whether to the victim’s car or personal belongings—and compensation for pain and suffering may apply. At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand the financial and emotional strain such accidents impose. Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf. We’ll gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, litigate to ensure you receive fair reimbursement for medical bills, wage loss, vehicle repair, and the physical and psychological impact of the collision.
Patrol Service Overview
Since its launch in 1994 along Detroit’s I-75 corridor, the Safety Service Patrol has expanded its coverage to major metropolitan areas, including Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, and Lansing. Patrol units are activated upon requests from law enforcement or MDOT dispatch and during peak traffic periods, such as weekday rush hours and weekend events. Their presence reduces secondary crashes, eases congestion, and provides critical support to stranded drivers.
Safety Reminders and Legal Obligations
“Move over, slow down” remains a mandatory requirement—not a suggestion—for all drivers in Michigan. Failing to comply can lead to traffic citations, fines, and in cases where injury occurs, more serious charges. Motorists should continuously monitor for emergency lights, change lanes when safe, and reduce speed to protect both themselves and roadside personnel.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
