Traffic accidents are some of the most common accidents throughout the country. There are thousands of car accidents annually, whether it’s something minor, like a fender bender or something more severe. While many car accidents don’t result in death, there are still plenty that do.
Unfortunately, in Connecticut, traffic fatalities have increased by 30% in the last two years. In 2019, there were only 240 traffic-related fatalities in the state, but that number rose in the next few years. The number of traffic fatalities jumped from 240 to 280, 285, and 354 so far in 2022.
The reasons for the increase in traffic-related deaths range from more people being on the road, drivers failing to abide by traffic safety laws, and intoxication.
Why Are Traffic Fatalities on the Rise in Connecticut?
There are a number of reasons why CT traffic fatalities are on the rise. More often than not, most traffic deaths come from someone driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, not wearing a seatbelt, or driving the wrong way.
With an increase in the state’s population in the last two years, it’s not uncommon to see a rise in car accidents and, unfortunately, deaths related to those accidents.
Connecticut Traffic Fatality Statistics
In Connecticut, there are several classifications of traffic accidents that result in death. These include:
- DUIs
- Bicyclist involved accidents
- Pedestrian involved accidents
- Unbelted accidents
- Speeding or aggressive driving accidents
Driving under the influence, not wearing a seat belt, and speeding or aggressive driving tend to be the largest contributors to CT traffic fatalities. While these are tragic, they are all preventable accidents that can help reduce the number of traffic fatalities in the future if everyone does their part.
The Most Dangerous Roads in Connecticut
All roads can be dangerous when people aren’t paying attention or following road rules. That being said, certain roads and intersections in Connecticut see far more car accidents and fatalities than others. Some of the most dangerous roads in the state are:
- Howard Avenue with 203
- Whitney Avenue with 242
- Whalley Avenue with 566
- Route 80 with 577
- Route 1 at 725
These roads aren’t the only dangerous ones in the state, but if you’re planning on driving through these areas, you might want to be more mindful. Many of the accidents and fatalities in these areas are due to DUIs, running red lights, and speeding or aggressive driving.
Driving Safety
Driving can be dangerous because even if you’re doing everything right, you can’t control the behavior of other drivers on the road. The best thing you can do is do your part to make Connecticut roads safer. Great ways to ensure you’re making the roads safer for yourself and others are by:
- Never drinking and driving
- Following the speed limit
- Coming to a full stop at stop signs
- Abiding by traffic lights
- Remaining patient
While you shouldn’t get behind the wheel at all when you’ve been drinking, if you plan on having a drink or two, knowing the legal alcohol limit is important. In Connecticut, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or more, you’re legally intoxicated and are a risk to others. The best thing you can do is have a designated driver or call a rideshare service to get you home.
Most of the major roadways have signs pointing out if you’re going the wrong way because there has been an increase in wrong-way drivers throughout the United States, including Connecticut. Even those not intoxicated have made the mistake of going the wrong way, and this can have fatal consequences.
While it might not seem like a huge deal to not come to a full stop at stop signs or red lights, it can be very dangerous. You might miss a pedestrian or bicyclist nearby and run into them if you’re not coming to a full stop. Be sure to pause before lifting your foot off the brake to ensure you’re fully aware of your surroundings and avoid any accidents.
If you encounter a driver driving recklessly, making you feel unsafe due to their aggressive nature, or potentially because they’re under the influence, you can call 911 or the Connecticut State Highway Patrol at (860) 534-1000.
Have You Been Affected by an Auto Accident?
A fatal auto accident may leave children without a parent or a spouse facing life’s challenges alone after the death of their partner. Financial costs only begin with final expenses. What about mortgages and plans for a child’s education? Just keeping bills paid may feel like an insurmountable challenge.
If you have been involved in a car accident and have been left injured, you may not know where to turn. Let the Brandon J. Broderick firm help. Our team of legal experts understands your rights and is willing to fight to ensure you are fairly compensated.
Brandon J. Broderick’s team of experienced CT car accident attorneys is available to you for a free legal consultation. Contact us today.