Ask a Trooper: Using a Vehicle Crossover Is Against the Law and Dangerous

While driving from Washtenaw to the Brighton Post on U.S.23 last week I came upon a traffic jam.  The road was backed up for several miles.  Being it was Friday and everyone trying to get home I figured it was just heavy traffic.  Eventually it came clear as to what had caused the backup.  A vehicle had tried to cross the median using an “authorized vehicle only” crossing.  As I will not get into the details of the accident I will remind those who know and advise those who don’t know of Michigan Vehicle Code 257.644 which states:

“When a highway has been divided into two roadways by leaving an intervening space or by a physical barrier or clearly indicated dividing section constructed to impede vehicular traffic, a vehicle shall be driven only upon the right-hand roadway and a vehicle shall not park or be driven over, across, or within the dividing space, barrier, or section, except through an opening in the physical barrier, dividing section, or space or at a crossover or intersection established by public authority. Crossovers on limited access highways shall not be used except by vehicles described in section 603, road service vehicles while going to or returning from servicing a disabled vehicle, and as otherwise permitted by authorized signs. “Road service vehicles” means vehicles clearly marked and readily recognizable as a vehicle used to assist disabled vehicles.”       

It is not only against the law to use vehicle crossovers, but it is very dangerous.  Vehicles traveling at 70 plus miles per hour quickly close on other vehicles trying to accelerate. 

If you have vehicle trouble pull onto the far right shoulder of the road or continue to travel to the next exit.  Never use the cross over  between two highways to turn around.  It is only a few more minutes out of your day to be safe.

I have said this before, and I will say it again, if you can’t get somewhere safe you are not doing anyone any good. 

This week I would like to introduce Trooper Nathan Dillon, who is a recent graduate of the Michigan State Police, 125th Recruit School.

Welcome Trooper Nathan Dillon

Trooper Dillon is from Rochester Hills, Michigan, graduated Stoney Creek High School and has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice, from Central Michigan University.  He considers himself a movie buff, enjoying classic and current movies.

Trooper Dillon’s grandfather was a member of the Indiana State Police.  Trooper Dillon has always wanted a career in law enforcement and felt the Michigan State Police would suit his career goals.

If you have a questions or comments please email them to askatrooper12@gmail.com, or mail them to Ask A Trooper, Michigan State Police – Brighton Post, 4337 Buno Road, Brighton, MI  48116.