(WWJ) Nine the ten most dangerous roundabouts in Michigan are in Metro Detroit, according to a new study.
Michigan Auto Law — which analyzes data from Michigan State Police — says the most dangerous roundabout is at 18 1/2 Mile Road and Van Dyke in Sterling Heights. In 2025, there were 162 crashes at this intersection. It was also the second most dangerous intersection in 2024.
The second most dangerous, according to the report, was in Commerce Township, at Martin Parkway at N. Pontiac Trail. There were 151 total crashes there in 2025. (Scroll down this page for the full list).
While roundabouts are often promoted as safer alternatives to traditional intersections, research from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) shows that converting an intersection into a roundabout can significantly increase the total number of crashes — even though fatal and injury crashes may decrease.
"This report is part of Michigan Auto Law's ongoing public safety campaign to raise awareness and help drivers make safer decisions on Michigan roads," stated Steve Gursten, President and Attorney at Michigan Auto Law. "By highlighting high-risk roundabouts, our lawyers aim to encourage motorists to use extra caution, refresh their knowledge of driving through roundabouts, and consider alternate routes when possible."
As driver anxiety and confusion often increase when approaching roundabouts, Michigan Auto Law has launched a Michigan Roundabout Resource Center, which features an interactive map of both existing and proposed roundabouts across the state, along with MDOT approved safety tips, including:
- Traffic in the roundabout always moves counterclockwise.
- Choose your lane before entering.
- Yield to traffic already in the roundabout.
- Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalks.
- Indicate your exit by using your turn signal.
- Use signs and pavement markings to help guide you.
Avoiding distracted and impaired driving and understanding proper roundabout navigation can significantly reduce the risk of collisions.
"When drivers understand how to properly navigate a roundabout, everyone is safer," Gursten said. "Our goal is to give Michigan drivers the information they need to reduce confusion, prevent crashes, and protect themselves and their families on the road."
Top 10 Most Dangerous Roundabouts in Michigan:
1): 18 1/2 MILE RD. @ VAN DYKE AVE., Sterling Heights, 162 Crashes, 12 Injuries
Total crashes jumped 20% from 135 in 2023 to 162 in 2024. Total crashes in previous years were: 2022 (118), 2021 (168), 2020 (131), 2019 (229). This was also the second most dangerous intersection in 2024.
2): MARTIN PKWY. @ N. PONTIAC TRL., Commerce Twp, 151 Total Crashes, 9 Injuries
This is Oakland Counties largest roundabout. Total crashes fell to 151 in 2024 from 160 in 2023. Total crashes in previous years were: 2022 (126), 2021 (140), 2020 (110), and 2019 (161) total crashes. This was also the third most dangerous intersection in 2024.
3): ORCHARD LAKE RD. @ 14 MILE RD., Farmington Hills, 109 Total Crashes, 5 Injuries
Total crashes fell by 17% in 2024 falling from 132 in 2023. Total crashes in previous years were: 2022 (64), 2021 (122), 2020 (89), and 2019 (178)
4): STATE RD. @ W. ELLSWORTH RD., Ann Arbor, 85 Total Crashes, 5 Injuries
Total crashes plummeted 32% in 2024, going from 126 in 2023 to 85 in 2024. Total crashes in previous years were: 2022 (93), 2021 (79), 2020 (69), and 2019 (154).
5): LEE RD. @ WHITMORE LAKE RD. Green Oak Township, 80 Total Crashes, 3 Injuries
Total crashes feel slights from the 85 in 2023. Total crashes in previous years were: 2022 (70), 2021 (71), and 2020 (35).
6): OAKLEY PARK RD. @ MARTIN PWKY. Commerce Township, 69 Total Crashes, 6 Injuries
7): FARMINGTON RD. @ W. MAPLE RD. West Bloomfield Township, 64 Total Crashes, 7 Injuries
8): SPRINKEL RD. @ CORK ST. (NORTH OF I 94) Kalamazoo, 49 Total Crashes, 15 Injuries
9): DRAKE RD. @ W. MAPLE RD. West Bloomfield Township, 48 Total Crashes, 6 Injuries
10): REMEMBRANCE RD. NW @ WILSON AVE. NW Walker, 38 Total Crashes, 7 Injuries