Three Michigan Road Workers Killed in 2026 as MDOT Renews Work-Zone Warning

Three Michigan road workers have died during the 2026 road-work season, prompting the Michigan Department of Transportation to renew its warning for drivers to slow down and pay attention in work zones.

Two were MDOT transportation maintenance workers killed May 26 on US-127 near Holt Road in Ingham County. The third was a Branch County Road Commission worker killed while mowing alongside a state trunkline. MDOT has not identified that worker or provided the date and exact location in its statewide update.

The deaths follow another dangerous year on Michigan roads. According to MDOT's preliminary figures, Michigan recorded 5,942 work-zone crashes in 2025, including 24 fatal crashes, 25 deaths and 1,199 injuries. The people killed included 22 motorists and three construction workers.

MDOT said distraction, impaired driving and speeding are common causes of work-zone crashes. The agency's fast-facts page says the highest number of crashes happen where lanes are closed.

“We need drivers to follow the law and slow down in our work zones,” MDOT communications specialist James Lake told UpNorthLive. He said the danger remains whether workers are visible or not because motorists and passengers are also killed in these crashes.

MDOT advises drivers to reduce speed, leave extra space, follow signs and avoid distractions when approaching orange barrels or changing traffic patterns. More information about the two MDOT workers killed in May is available in Michigan Legal Center's earlier US-127 report.

Get Help From Michigan Legal Center

Michigan Legal Center helps injured motorists, road workers and families after serious Michigan work-zone crashes. Call (248) 886-8650 or contact us for a free consultation.