IONIA COUNTY, Mich. -- A construction zone in Ionia County is catching the attention of the Michigan State Police. The construction zone between Morrison Lake Road and Sunfield Road has seen a dramatic increase in car crashes since the project began on March 24.
The Michigan State Police and the Michigan Department of Transportation are now conducting increased enforcement in the area to try to reduce unsafe driving behaviors and crashes. On September 17 and 23, the MSP Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division will partner with MDOT to staff additional officers in the construction zone area.
Motor carrier officers will be watching for driver behavior that can lead to a crash including speeding, following too closely, improper lane changes, reckless or careless driving and texting while driving.
Motor Carrier Lieutenant Jason Zylstra says nine fatalities have occurred in the construction zone. Zylstra says 75 percent of the crashes that have occurred have involved a commercial vehicle.
MSP says to always pay attention, slow down and prepare to stop when nearing a construction zone.