CTDOT Highlights Dangers of Holiday Impaired Driving

Increased enforcement campaign runs through January 1, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Keeping Connecticut Safe: CTDOT Highlights Dangers of Holiday Impaired Driving Posted on December 23 , 2025 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding motorists that celebrations and impaired driving are a dangerous and often deadly combination. As holiday travel ramps up, CTDOT is partnering with state and local law enforcement to launch an expanded impaired driving enforcement effort running now through January 1, 2026. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes in the United States, especially during the holiday season. In Connecticut in 2023, the most recent year with verified data, 113 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes. "Too many lives are lost to impaired driving, especially during a time meant for joy and togetherness," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "We urge drivers to make responsible choices. If you plan to drink, plan a sober ride. Connecticut's law enforcement community will be out in force to identify and stop impaired drivers before tragedies occur." NHTSA data also show that alcohol impairment is significantly more common at night. In 2023, the rate of alcohol impairment among drivers involved in fatal crashes was three times higher at night than during the day. Drivers ages 21–34 made up the largest percentage of impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes. "We ask all drivers to be our partners in safety: if you plan to drink, please designate a driver or use a rideshare," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "Our Troopers will be on the roads to protect motorists from highway hazards, but we cannot do this alone; we need everyone's cooperation to ensure safe holiday travel. If you see a hazardous or suspected impaired driver, this is a true emergency and should be reported by calling 911." "Connecticut's police officers are committed to keeping our roadways safe this holiday season. Extra patrols are being deployed across the state to detect and apprehend intoxicated drivers," said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. "You can avoid these patrols by using a designated sober driver if you have been drinking. Remember, buzzed driving is drunk driving." To help prevent impaired-driving crashes, CTDOT urges residents to: Plan ahead and line up a sober ride before celebrating. Use rideshares, taxis, or public transportation if you've been drinking. Step in to prevent friends or family from driving impaired, take their keys, and help them find a safe ride. Report dangerous drivers immediately by calling 911. Driving under the influence of any substance, whether alcohol, cannabis, prescription medication, or over-the-counter drugs, is illegal and dangerous. This includes substances that impair judgment and reaction time, even in states where cannabis laws have changed. For more information on the "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign and tips for staying safe, visit nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT Reminds Families to Prioritize Older Driver Safety

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week is December 1–5, 2025 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut Department of Transportation Reminds Families to Prioritize Older Driver Safety Posted on December 1 , 2025 During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, December 1–5, 2025, the Connecticut Department of Transportation is teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to encourage families and caregivers to begin open, proactive conversations about safe driving as loved ones age. This annual observance highlights the safety and mobility needs of older adults. Between 2014 and 2023, the U.S. population of people 65 and older grew by 28%. In 2023, NHTSA reported 7,810 fatal crashes involving drivers aged 65 and older, accounting for 19% of all fatal traffic crashes nationwide. In Connecticut in 2023, the last year of verifiable data, 51 older adults (65+) were involved in fatal traffic crashes, accounting for 17% of all roadway fatalities. Getting older doesn't mean it's time to stop driving, but it's important to regularly evaluate how you, or your loved ones, drive. "Aging is a natural part of life, and its effects on driving ability can vary from person to person," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "If you've noticed changes in reaction time, nighttime visibility, or physical mobility, it may be time to start a conversation about safety. Having these conversations early helps older adults maintain their independence while staying safe behind the wheel." In Connecticut, state law allows drivers 60 and older to take a crash prevention course and receive a minimum 5% insurance discount. For more information and a list of providers, visit portal.ct.gov/dmv/resources/insurance-discounts. "In addition to having that conversation early on with your loved one to come up with a proactive driving plan and agreement, we also encourage experienced drivers to take advantage of resources like a crash prevention course," said Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Tony Guerrera. "Keeping your driving skills sharp and taking proactive steps will help keep you and those around you safe." CTDOT encourages families and caregivers to work with older adults to create a transportation plan that supports safe mobility. This may include: Scheduling routine vision and hearing appointments. Reviewing medications with a health care provider for possible driving-related side effects. Choosing daytime travel or less complex routes, when possible. Exploring adaptive vehicle equipment. Identifying non-driving transportation options if the need arises. NHTSA provides free resources to help older adults stay safe on the road and offers guidance for families and caregivers supporting a safe environment for everyone, whether driving, walking, or cycling. Learn more at nhtsa.gov. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

Seat Belts Save Lives: Something to Be Thankful for This Thanksgiving

CTDOT and Law Enforcement remind drivers to buckle up during annual Click It or Ticket Campaign. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Seat Belts Save Lives: Something to Be Thankful for This Thanksgiving Posted on November 26 , 2025 As families and friends prepare to gather for Thanksgiving, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and law enforcement agencies statewide are reminding everyone to buckle up to get to their holiday destinations safely. Beginning Thursday, November 27, and running through Friday, December 5, 2025, the annual Click It or Ticket campaign will be underway, focusing on seat belt safety through heightened enforcement and public awareness. The goal of the campaign is simple: increase seat belt use and prevent senseless tragedies during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. In 2023, 71 people lost their lives on Connecticut roadways while not wearing seat belts. Nationally, during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in 2023, 47% of those killed in nighttime crashes and 38% of those killed in daytime crashes were unbuckled. "When the unexpected happens, that simple click of a seat belt can be the difference between tragedy and survival," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Seat belts save thousands of lives every year, which is why it's critical - before you put your car into drive - everyone in your vehicle is buckled up." This holiday season, drivers will see increased law enforcement on Connecticut roads. Officers will pull over anyone not wearing a seat belt and issue a citation – because enforcing seat belt laws saves lives. "When you get behind the wheel, buckling up should be as automatic as starting the engine. Our troopers are out in force because we know one simple action can mean the difference between walking away from a collision and not surviving at all," said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. "This Click It or Ticket campaign isn't about punishment: it's about readiness, responsibility, and respecting the lives in your vehicle. Buckle up every trip, every time." "Buckling seat belts for all passengers in a motor vehicle is the simplest and most effective way to prevent serious injuries in a crash, and it's also the easiest way to avoid a ticket," said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. Connecticut law requires all drivers and passengers, front and back, to wear a seat belt. Violators can face fines starting at $92 for a first offense. For more information on seat belt safety, please visit nhtsa.gov Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

Protect What You’re Thankful For: Never Drive Impaired

CTDOT encourages safe and responsible driving this holiday season. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Protect What You're Thankful For: Never Drive Impaired Posted on November 25 , 2025 As Thanksgiving approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is joining the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind everyone that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Whether you're driving across town or across the state, celebrating responsibly is the best way to ensure everyone makes it home safely. One of the most dangerous times on the road is the night before Thanksgiving, a night often associated with gatherings, reconnecting with friends, and increased alcohol consumption. Planning ahead for a sober ride, whether it's a designated driver, public transportation, a rideshare or a taxi, is critical to keeping everyone safe. In Connecticut between 2020-2024, during the Thanksgiving holiday (defined as the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through the Monday after) there were 83 crashes involving an impaired driver that resulted in 76 injuries and eight fatalities. Nationally, between 2019 and 2023, 868 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday period, accounting for more than one-third of all traffic fatalities during that time. In 2023 alone, 174 people lost their lives in drunk-driving crashes over the Thanksgiving weekend, with drivers ages 21–34 making up the largest share of those fatalities. "Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and celebration – but if you don't celebrate safely, lives can be changed in an instant," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your ability to drive. Planning ahead for a sober ride home helps ensure the holiday season is a time of gratitude, not tragedy." CTDOT recommends the following to keep yourself and others safe: Designate a sober driver before your celebration begins. Use a taxi, rideshare, or public transportation to get home safely. If a friend is about to drive after drinking, take their keys and help them get a safe ride home. If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact local law enforcement immediately. "As they patrol state roads and highways, Connecticut State Troopers are always on the lookout for impaired drivers. We ask the public to be our partners in public safety and call 911 if they suspect an impaired operator on the road – this is a true emergency and warrants an immediate response from law enforcement," said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. "Thanksgiving is not only a time for gathering with family and friends, but also to ensure that safety remains a priority on the road." "Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Connecticut police urge everyone to help keep our roadways safe by driving sober or choosing a designated driver," said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. This Thanksgiving, make safety part of your holiday celebration and ensure you and your loved ones get home safely. For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, visit nhsta.gov. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly

CTDOT Announces Improvements to Historic Rocky Hill-Glastonbury Ferry

Web Version     CTDOT Announces Improvements to Historic Rocky Hill - Glastonbury Ferry Posted on November 21 , 2025 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced the start of an offseason improvement project for the Rocky Hill–Glastonbury Ferry, the nation's longest-running continuously operated ferry, serving communities across the Connecticut River since 1655. The project will enhance safety, accessibility, and aesthetics at both the Rocky Hill and Glastonbury landings. Key upgrades include the installation of decorative fencing, gates, and lighting to secure the ferry when docked and prevent unauthorized access. On the Rocky Hill landing, new sidewalks, ramps, and pedestrian connections will improve access from the adjacent park, while benches and other amenities will create a more inviting experience for visitors and residents who enjoy watching the ferry operate. These improvements bring the site in line with the recently rehabilitated Chester–Hadlyme Ferry. "CTDOT is committed to the Rocky Hill–Glastonbury Ferry, ensuring it remains safe and accessible for all users," said CTDOT Deputy Commissioner Laoise King. "These improvements will enhance security, pedestrian access, and the overall experience for the thousands who rely on this historic crossing each year." The $533,335 project, fully funded by the state of Connecticut, has been awarded to Colossale Siteworks Corporation. Construction will run from November 2025 through spring 2026. The ferry season runs through Sunday, November 30, 2025. For more information about Connecticut's ferries, visit our CTferry site. Connecticut Department of Transportation 2800 Berlin Turnpike P.O. Box 317546 Newington, CT 06131-7546 860-594-2000 Twitter You're receiving this email because you opted in to receive notices from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Edit your subscription Unsubscribe instantly