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Safety concerns spark speeding crackdown in Connecticut

On Behalf of | Aug 8, 2022 | Car Accidents |

In Connecticut and across the United States, speeding remains one of the primary causes of collisions. The faster a vehicle is going, the greater the chance of catastrophic injuries and death. Connecticut is seeing a troubling spike in road fatalities in 2022 and much of that is believed to be due to drivers traveling at excessive speeds on the state roads. To address that, a summer crackdown is underway.

CTDOT will enhance enforcement to catch speeders through Labor Day

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) began its blitz to catch speeders on July 1. It will continue through Labor Day weekend. Because many more drivers are expected to be traveling in the summer and during that holiday weekend, speeding is a known challenge to maintaining safe roads.

Law enforcement will be on the lookout for drivers who are exceeding the speed limit. The hope is that citations and the simple presence of visible law enforcement vehicles will curb reckless activities. Anecdotal evidence from first responders says that the faster a vehicle is going, the worse the accident will be. By adhering to the speed limits, lives could be saved and accidents might be prevented.

The most recent statistics through the third week in June show that Connecticut had 166 road fatalities in 2022. In 2021, there were 123 fatalities; in 2020, there were 126. This is worrisome because accidents overall have been declining in Connecticut and across the nation. It suggests that crashes are becoming more severe and it is believed to be because of speeding.

Part of the problem has been fewer people on the roads because of the national crisis. More people were working from home, children were learning remotely and leisure trips were placed on hold. Emptier roadways gave drivers the freedom to speed. Holidays are a known problem, showing why Labor Day is a target. During the weekend of July 4, Connecticut had 299 accidents. This was an improvement from 2021 when there were 381, but it is still worrisome.

Even with increased enforcement, people are still vulnerable

Drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians should think about safety – especially over the summer – but there is little they can do when they encounter a speeding driver. Even though state regulators and law enforcement are aware of this problem and are taking steps to address it, those who have been hurt or lost a loved one in a car accident should think about their options. This can include covering medical costs, lost wages, long-term care and more. Discussing the situation with caring professionals who have a track record of helping those who were hurt in an accident is essential.