MICHIGAN — The Governor’s Traffic Safety Advisory Commission (GTSAC) has launched the SAFER by 2030 initiative to reduce traffic fatalities on Michigan roadways by 30% by 2030.
The initiative, known as SAFER by 2030—Statewide Action to Reduce Fatalities Encountered on our Roadways by 30 percent by 2030—aims to foster a culture of safe driving in Michigan as part of the ongoing Toward Zero Deaths campaign.
“The SAFER by 2030 initiative is a collective effort to significantly impact road safety in our state,” said Alicia Sledge, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) and chair of the GTSAC.“
Mobile technologies are leading to more distracted-driving crashes, and we are seeing an increase in risky-driving behaviors, such as excessive speeding,” said Insp. Patrick Daughtery, assistant deputy director of the Michigan State Police’s Field Services Bureau and chair of the SAFER by 2030 Committee.
“Every Michigander deserves safe roads so they can go to work, school or the grocery store,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
In 2024, Michigan experienced 288,880 crashes, resulting in 1,099 fatalities.
The SAFER by 2030 initiative focuses on three key areas: Awareness, Engagement, and Enforcement.
Partners involved in the initiative already have traffic safety programs and outreach strategies in place.
The Office of Highway Safety Planning is set to distribute over 100 traffic safety grants to support fiscal year 2026 initiatives.
The Department of Health and Human Services supports community traffic safety initiatives, including car seat checks and safety trainings.
The Department of State’s “Look Twice, Save a Life” campaign educates drivers and motorcyclists to share the road.
The Department of State Police conducts traffic enforcement and defensive driving schools for young drivers.
The Department of Transportation has installed “hands-free device use” signs to raise awareness about Michigan’s Hands-Free Law.
Bloomfield Hills Public Safety Department uses data for targeted patrol operations and enforcement.
The Kiefer Foundation created the “Just Drive Simulator” to educate young drivers about distracted driving dangers.