Michigan drivers, take note: new data reveals the most crash-prone sections of Interstate 96 — and when you’re most likely to have an accident.
The Local 4 Investigative Team analyzed five years’ worth of crash data from the Michigan Traffic Crash Facts (MTCF) Data Query Tool, spotlighting four two-mile stretches along I-96 where accidents occur most frequently. The findings detail not only where crashes are happening but also when — including the time of day, day of the week, and even the month — to give drivers a fuller picture of risk on the road.
Here’s a closer look at the most dangerous stretches of I-96 between after 2019:
1. I-96 Between 7 Mile Road and the M-14/I-96 Interchange (Wayne County)
- Crashes (2019–2023): 978
- Deadly Crashes: 1
- Most Common Crash Type: Rear-end
- Peak Crash Time: 3 p.m. – 6:59 p.m.
- Most Dangerous Day: Friday
- Safest Day: Sunday
- Worst Month: October
This segment leads the list with the highest number of reported crashes. The shared route with I-275 may cause confusion for drivers, potentially contributing to the high crash rate. Congestion during evening rush hours appears to be a major factor in the rear-end collisions that dominate this stretch.
2. I-96 Between Novi Road and the I-696/M-5 Interchange (Oakland County)
- Crashes (2019–2023): 815
- Deadly Crashes: 1
- Most Common Crash Type: Rear-end
- Peak Crash Time: 2 p.m. – 6:59 p.m.
- Most Dangerous Day: Friday
- Safest Day: Sunday
- Worst Month: February
This busy area near multiple interchanges sees a consistent flow of traffic that often results in afternoon crashes. The concentration of business and retail activity could also contribute to the increased risk during weekday afternoons.
3. I-96 Between Greenfield Road and Wyoming Avenue (Wayne County)
- Crashes (2019–2023): 757
- Deadly Crashes: 6
- Most Common Crash Type: Single-vehicle
- Worst Month: April
- Direction Impacted Most: Eastbound (56% of crashes)
This is the deadliest stretch on the list. Unlike the others, which are dominated by rear-end crashes, this segment is known for single-vehicle incidents — possibly due to curves, speed, or sudden stops. MDOT is considering updates, including better roadway signage or “shields,” to help drivers navigate more clearly.
4. I-96 Between the Express/Local Split and the M-39/Southfield Freeway Interchange (Wayne County)
- Crashes (2019–2023): 672
- Deadly Crashes: 0
- Crash Breakdown:
- Single-Vehicle: 37%
- Sideswipe: 28%
- Rear-End: 27%
- Peak Crash Time: 3 p.m. – 6:59 p.m.
- Most Dangerous Day: Wednesday
- Safest Day: Sunday
- Worst Month: February
Though no fatal crashes were reported in this stretch over the five-year period, it still ranks high for overall crash volume. Afternoon congestion likely contributes to the significant percentage of sideswipe and rear-end collisions, particularly near the express/local split.
Takeaway for Drivers
These data-driven insights aren’t just about statistics — they’re a guide to safer driving. Rear-end crashes dominate high-traffic hours, especially on weekday afternoons, while certain areas are prone to single-vehicle accidents that may be avoidable with more caution or clearer signage.
If you frequently drive along these routes, especially during peak hours, extra vigilance could save lives. Buckle up, stay alert, and leave extra space between vehicles — especially during those high-risk timeframes.
For more details, including crash hotspot reports on I-75 and I-94, visit the Investigations section on our website.
