Michigan bicyclist deaths rose 21% in 2025 even as road deaths fell

Michigan State Police crash data show bicyclist deaths rose from 29 in 2024 to 35 in 2025, a 21% increase, even as overall traffic fatalities declined statewide.

Local cyclists in the Lansing area said the rise matches their own experience with close calls on the road. Cyclist Jameson Baker said he was recently run off the road on Commercial Drive and has since added rearview mirrors and a phone holder to his bike.

Bicycling advocates pointed to multiple factors behind the increase. Tim Potter, former head of MSU Bikes, said narrow roads make it dangerous when several vehicles pass a cyclist at once. Andy Rohrer, executive director of the League of Michigan Bicyclists, cited distracted driving and the shape of newer, larger vehicles, which he said can force a cyclist under the vehicle rather than over it in a collision.

Rohrer said a large share of bicycle collisions occur at intersections and voiced support for changing traffic law to let cyclists slow and proceed through stop signs when an intersection is clear, rather than requiring a full stop.

Read the full story at wlns.com.