Increased Traffic At Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale Creates Safety Hazards
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY — If you’re looking for a good bargain, you might find one along U.S. 12 this weekend.
That’s because starting Friday, Michigan’s longest garage sale is happening along that stretch of road from New Buffalo to Detroit.
It’s an event that’s been going on for many years now. 16 years and each year it continues growing with more garage sales popping up along U.S. 12.
You can expect hundreds of people to be traveling down that road looking for the best sale. But with the increased traffic, it creates a safety hazard.
“Just folding things up and organizing things,” said Julie Hess, hosts garage sale.
Hess is hard at work sorting through clothes and putting items out on display.
“It’s a lot of work initially just getting ready for it,” said Hess.
Getting ready for Michigan’s largest garage sale along U.S. 12 from New Buffalo to Detroit. Her favorite thing about it?
“Getting rid of stuff!!” said Hess.
Also seeing everyone’s reaction, both young and old as they see browse the selection.
But with the largest garage sale, comes increased traffic on a busy road causing the risk for car accidents.
“A lot of people will make their own parking spots either on the road, in the road and it creates a lot of safety situations,” said Evan Hauger, Michigan State Trooper.
Hauger says drivers need to be mindful of pedestrians while driving on U.S. 12. Also pedestrians need to be cautious of drivers.
“They should also be defensive and expecting people to stop, slam on their breaks and do a U-turn right in front of them because of some sale someone just can’t miss,” said Hauger.
Two years ago a woman was hit by a car and killed while shopping. Just last year two people were airlifted to the hospital after a serious crash.
“We actually had a few accidents out here. Right out here. I think it was last year,” said Hess.
That’s why you should always check to make sure you’re completely off the roadway when parking at a sale.
Then step out of your car and begin shopping away.
“I enjoy seeing the little kids. Getting excited and parents finding things that work perfectly for their kids,” said Hess.
Because after all, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
If you’re not going to garage sales but need to get somewhere along the route, Michigan State Troopers suggest taking an alternate route. It’s going to get pretty busy.
The sale starts Friday and ends Sunday. Most sales will run from 9 in the morning until 6 in the evening all three days.
Source: WSBT