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Michigan is considered one of the more lenient states regarding driving under the influence (DUI) violations. A 2017 WalletHub study concluded Michigan was the ninth most forgiving with its penalties for DUIs. However, some Michiganders face a self-imposed sentence of lifelong guilt for taking a life while under the influence. Nationally, three Michigan counties rank among America's most deadly fatal crashes caused by drunk, high, or medicated drivers.

Related: Can You Be Ticketed For Flashing High Beams in Michigan?

While Michigan is ranked as one of America's most lenient states, its DUI laws are also considered among the nation's most complicated. These complications can lead to drivers who were clearly guilty of drunk or drugged driving escaping full penalties with plea deals. Indeed, good people make mistakes, but when those missteps result in the loss of life, consequences must be paid.

Which Three Michigan Counties Are Among USAs Deadliest for DUI Crashes

Which Michigan Counties Rank as USA's Worst for Fatal DUIs?
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Before revealing the three Michigan counties that rank among the United States' most deadly for DUI crashes, let's take a look at the law. You can be charged with DUI for the following in Michigan:

  • It can be confirmed you are under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or any other substance or combination of substances
  • Adults 21 and older with a blood alcohol level over 0.08%
    • Under 21 with a blood alcohol level over 0.02%
  • Penalties and fines increase with BAC over 0.17%

Now that you have a basic knowledge of Michigan's law let's examine the study and which counties are Michigan's Deadliest for DUI, according to the Scott Vicknair Law Firm.

Deadly Drive: America's Worst Counties For Fatal DUI Accidents

The Scott Vicknair Law Firm analyzed data from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) between 2017 and 2021, examining the incidence of drivers involved in fatal crashes under the influence of substances. It surveyed all 50 states to pinpoint the counties with the highest rates of DUI accidents. For full methodology, scroll to the #1 county in America for fatal DUI accidents.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Michigan Deer Season: Car v Deer, Which Kill More in Your County?

Between hunters and car-deer collisions, which one is responsible for thinning the herd more in your Michigan county? Using the Michigan Department of Natural Resources deer license sales from all seasons and crash data from MichiganTrafficCrashFacts.org, let's take a county-by-county look as we count down to the one with the most deer-involved crashes and compare that to the amount killed by hunters.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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