CTDOT Reminds Drivers: Slow Down and Move Over Every Day to Protect Incident Responders

Crash Responder Safety Week is November 2-6, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Reminds Drivers: Slow Down and Move Over Every Day to Protect Incident Responders Posted on November 2 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging motorists to slow down and move over to help protect incident responders and save lives. The message underscores this year’s Crash Responder Safety Week theme, “Slow Down, Move Over. Lives are on the Line!” observed November 2-6, 2026. Drivers are reminded to stay alert and give responders the space they need to work safely. Annually in Connecticut, there are more than 100,000 motor vehicle crashes where responders work close to oncoming traffic. Nationwide, more than 160 crash responders have been killed in the line of duty since 2020. These figures underscore the risks responders face while assisting motorists and the importance of driver awareness around roadside incidents. “Every driver has the responsibility to help make Connecticut’s roadways safer, including when passing a vehicle stopped along the roadside,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Taking a few extra seconds to reduce your speed and move over when it is safe can make a meaningful difference in protecting the people working just feet away from moving traffic. We encourage drivers to make these precautions part of their every drive.” “Traffic can be unpredictable, and troopers working at crash scenes have little protection from passing vehicles,” said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. “Drivers need to pay attention, anticipate changing conditions and give emergency personnel room to work. Staying alert and approaching roadside incidents with caution helps reduce the risk of a second crash and keeps our troopers safer while they assist the public.” “Local police officers and other first responders often work in close proximity to traffic while helping people during some of their most difficult moments,” said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger. “When motorists slow down and move over, they help create a safer environment for everyone at the scene, including responders, crash victims and other drivers. We all share the responsibility of making sure those who come to help can do so safely.” “So many drivers know that slowing down and moving over is the right thing to do, but too often, speeding, distraction and impairment leave those at the roadside vulnerable,” said AAA Northeast Public Affairs Specialist Adelle Cuseo. “To respond appropriately when approaching first responders, roadside assistance providers, and others working in close proximity to traffic, drivers need be traveling at appropriate speeds, alert and unimpaired. We urge drivers to slow down, move over and help protect everyone at the roadside." Connecticut’s “Slow Down, Move Over” law requires drivers to slow down and, when safe and reasonable, move over for any stationary vehicle on the roadside, not just emergency vehicles. Motorists should follow these guidelines when approaching a roadside incident: Move over when safe. On multilane roads, change lanes away from the stopped vehicle when it is safe and reasonable to do so. Slow down. If moving over is not possible, reduce speed and proceed with caution. Stay alert. Watch for responders, roadside workers and changing traffic conditions. Avoid distractions. Keep your attention on the road and be prepared to react safely. Connecticut’s law took effect in 2009 to help protect law enforcement officers, emergency responders and tow operators. In 2017, the law was expanded to cover all stationary vehicles along the roadside. Violations may result in fines, with increased penalties when an injury or death occurs. CTDOT also offers free Traffic Incident Management (TIM) training to bring together the agencies and professionals who respond to roadway incidents. The program promotes responder safety, effective communication, and coordinated practices for clearing crashes safely and efficiently. To date, CTDOT has trained more than 10,000 participants. Crash Responder Safety Week is a reminder that protecting roadside responders is an ongoing responsibility. Drivers can help reduce risks every day by slowing down, moving over when safe and remaining alert whenever they encounter a stopped vehicle. For more information about Connecticut’s Move Over Law, visit the CTDOT Move Over Law webpage. 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

🎃👻 No Tricks, Just Safety

CTDOT reminds drivers and pedestrians to stay alert this Halloween ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     No Tricks, Just Safety: CTDOT Highlights Halloween Pedestrian Safety Posted on October 30 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding motorists and pedestrians to take extra precautions during Halloween weekend to help prevent crashes and keep everyone safe. With children and families out trick-or-treating on Halloween, drivers should be especially alert in residential neighborhoods, near intersections, and at crosswalks. Daylight Saving Time also ends overnight Saturday, with clocks falling back on Sunday, November 1, bringing earlier sunsets and reduced visibility during evening commutes in the days ahead. Preliminary data shows that 1,314 crashes involving pedestrians occurred on Connecticut’s roads in 2025, resulting in 67 pedestrian fatalities. Through September 30, 2026, preliminary data recorded 725 crashes involving pedestrians statewide, resulting in 31 pedestrian fatalities. CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto joined Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli, state and local law enforcement, and safety advocates today in Farmington to urge precaution so people of all ages stay safe and enjoy the Halloween weekend. “I hope that residents and families across Connecticut have the best Halloween. While there is so much to look forward to, we must also be reminded that it can be one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians, especially children,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. "If we watch out for each other, we can prevent injuries, save lives, and ensure that Halloween remains a safe and joyful evening for everyone.” “Halloween is an exciting time for families, but it’s also a time when drivers need to be especially vigilant. Slow down, watch for people crossing the street, and put distractions away,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “As daylight hours decrease, staying alert and looking out for pedestrians becomes even more important. Every driver has a role to play in keeping Connecticut’s roads safe.” “With Halloween on a Saturday night this year, we can expect that our roads, neighborhoods, and bars will be busy with celebrations,” said Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. “If you plan to go to a bar or restaurant on Halloween night, make sure to prearrange a sober and safe ride. Although the clocks fall back early Sunday morning, bargoers do not get a ‘bonus hour.’ We know Halloween is a fun night, but we would all like to keep it that way. Just call the ride, get home safe, and enjoy the extra hour of sleep.” “We urge everyone to use extra caution on Halloween, when children may be crossing streets between parked cars or in areas where drivers may not expect them,” said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. “Drivers should slow down, stay alert and never drive impaired. Parents and caregivers should also remind children to use designated crosswalks when available and remain aware of their surroundings.” “As Halloween approaches, we encourage everyone to do their part to keep our communities safe,” said Watertown Police Chief Joshua Bernegger, chair of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association’s Traffic Safety Committee. “Drivers should remain alert for pedestrians, especially children, and pedestrians should take steps to be visible and cross streets safely. Looking out for one another can help prevent crashes and ensure families enjoy a safe Halloween.” CTDOT offers the following tips to help drivers protect pedestrians this Halloween weekend and throughout the fall: Watch for trick-or-treaters: Drive slowly through residential neighborhoods and look carefully for children crossing the street. Slow down near crosswalks: Be prepared to stop for pedestrians, including when turning at intersections. Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk: A pedestrian may be crossing where you cannot see them. Put distractions away: Keep your eyes on the road and your hands off your phone. Use caution after dark: Be extra careful at night or during bad weather. Yield to pedestrians: Stop at crosswalks and maintain a safe distance, allowing other drivers to see and stop for pedestrians as well. Check before backing up: Look carefully for pedestrians behind your vehicle before reversing. Obey speed limits: Follow posted speed limits, especially in school zones and residential areas where children may be present. Never drive impaired: Make a plan for a sober ride, whether that’s a designated driver or a taxi, public transportation, or rideshare service. For more safety information and tips for parents, caregivers and children, visit NHTSA's Pedestrian Safety webpage. 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 Trains More than 10,000 Participants in Traffic Incident Management

TIM training is designed to keep responders safe and ensure quick clearance of a scene. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Trains More than 10,000 Participants in Traffic Incident Management Posted on October 23 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) achieved an important milestone in roadway safety on October 21, 2026 after training more than 10,000 participants in Traffic Incident Management (TIM), a national training program supported by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). WATCH: CTDOT TIM Training The free trainings provided by CTDOT are open to any incident responder, such as police, fire, EMS, tow operators, and public works, and are focused on responder safety, safe and quick clearance of an incident, and prompt, reliable communications. CTDOT began the trainings in 2022, and in 2026 alone, more than 1,600 responders have been trained. Traffic incidents that impede the normal flow of traffic, such as a crash or a disabled vehicle, increase the likelihood of a secondary crash and pose a threat to the safety of incident responders, as well as other motorists. The risks of secondary crashes increase in inclement weather, such as rain or snow. TIM training provides responders with the tools they need to stay safe at the scene and ensures quick clearance of the incident. “Every minute a responder spends on a roadway increases the risks for them and the motorists traveling by. With thousands of incidents happening on state and local roads each year, safe and quick clearance of the scene is essential to protecting lives, preventing secondary crashes, and keeping traffic moving,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Whether they are new to their role or have been in the field for decades, the free TIM training gives responders of all experience levels the latest tools, techniques, and information to stay safe. I encourage every incident responder to register for an upcoming session. Thank you to FHWA Administrator McMaster for pushing this as a national priority, and to our CTDOT teams for leading these critical training efforts throughout the state.” The CTDOT TIM training has been endorsed by more than a dozen national organizations, including the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA), and Transportation Research Board (TRB). TIM training occurs from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the CTDOT Headquarters, 2800 Berlin Turnpike, in Newington. Responders can register for an upcoming training online. To make a request for CTDOT to provide a training, email Aidan.Neely@ct.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

The Keys Are Just the Beginning: CTDOT Highlights Teen Driver Safety

National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 18-24, 2026. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     The Keys Are Just the Beginning: CTDOT Highlights Teen Driver Safety Posted on October 16 , 2026 During National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 18–24, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding teens and their parents, guardians, and caregivers about the importance of developing safe driving habits at an early age. Traffic crashes are a leading cause of injury and death for 15- to 18-year-olds in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2024, 85,947 teen drivers were injured in crashes, and 2,320 people died in crashes involving a teen driver. Of those who died, 752 were teen drivers and 478 were passengers in a teen’s vehicle. In Connecticut in 2024, 1,965 people were injured in crashes involving teen drivers, including 997 teen drivers. In those crashes, nine people were killed, including five teen drivers. Overall, teen driver crashes accounted for approximately 6% of all crash injuries statewide. “Getting behind the wheel comes with a lot of freedom, but it also comes with major responsibility,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Teen drivers are still gaining experience, and the choices they make can have lasting consequences. We encourage parents and caregivers to set clear expectations and help their teens understand that safe driving is a responsibility every time they get behind the wheel.” Speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, drowsy driving, not wearing a seat belt, and carrying multiple passengers can all increase the risks faced by teen drivers. NHTSA reports that in 2024, speeding was a factor in 33% of fatal crashes involving a teen driver, while 22% of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes had been drinking. CTDOT urges parents and caregivers to familiarize themselves with Connecticut’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws to help protect their teens on the road. As part of its ongoing commitment to educating young drivers, CTDOT will continue to bring two longstanding programs to Connecticut high schools during National Teen Driver Safety Week and throughout the school year. Below are the programs scheduled in October. Members of the media who wish to cover any of these events should coordinate with the CTDOT Communications Office by emailing CTDOTMedia@ct.gov. Save a Life Tour: This program raises awareness of the dangers of distracted driving and highlights the deadly consequences of unsafe driving practices through interactive presentations and demonstrations. Learn more at SaveALifeTour.com. Tuesday, October 20, 9 a.m.– 2 p.m. | Bunnell High School, 1 Bulldog Blvd., Stratford Wednesday, October 21, 9:10 a.m.–2:10 p.m. | Fairchild Wheeler High School, 840 Old Town Rd., Bridgeport Thursday, October 22, 9:10 a.m.–2:10 p.m. | Fairchild Wheeler High School, 840 Old Town Rd., Bridgeport Friday, October 23, 9 a.m.–2:05 p.m. | New Britain High School Satellite Careers Academy, 40 Goodwin St., New Britain Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Weston High School, 115 School Rd., Weston Thursday, October 29, 2026, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Henry Abbott High School, 21 Hayestown Ave., Danbury Friday, October 30, 2026, 9:30 a.m. – 1:50 pm | Bristol Technical High School, 431 East Minor St., Bristol Choices Matter: This program focuses on the dangers of impaired driving where speakers use their personal stories to connect with and inspire students to make safe choices behind the wheel. For more information, visit ChoicesMatter.com. Monday, October 26, 9:15 a.m.–10:45 a.m. | Watertown High School, 324 French St., Watertown Tuesday, October 27, 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. | Crosby High School, 300 Pierpont Rd., Waterbury Tuesday, October 27, 12:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. | Seymour High School, 2 Botsford Rd., Seymour Wednesday, October 28, 8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m. | Bassick High School, 205 Broad St., Bridgeport Wednesday, October 28, 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Hamden High School, 2040 Dixwell Ave., Hamden Thursday, October 29, 2026, 8:15 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. | Bulkeley High School, 300 Wethersfield Ave., Hartford Thursday, October 29, 2026, 12:45 p.m. – 2:10 p.m. | Great Path Academy High School, 60 Bidwell St., Manchester Friday, October 30, 2026, 9:45 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. | James Hillhouse High School, 480 Sherman Pkwy., New Haven For more information on teen driver safety, 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

Rail Safety Training Drill Scheduled for Saturday, October 10, in East Lyme

Training exercise tests the emergency response for train crews and first responders. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Rail Safety Training Drill Scheduled for Saturday, October 10, in East Lyme Posted on October 6 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing that a rail safety training drill will occur on Saturday, October 10, 2026, between 9 a.m. and noon in East Lyme. This exercise will test the emergency response for train crews, dispatchers, and first responders called to handle a passenger train emergency. There will be no impact on Shore Line East passengers. The training drill will consist of calls to on-duty first responders dispatched to the scene and radio communication between all participants. The training will take place along the freight tracks off the main Shore Line East corridor in East Lyme. The emergency response drill is being held in partnership with emergency management services in East Lyme, Old Lyme, and Waterford; Amtrak; local law enforcement; and CTDOT as part of ongoing training to ensure the highest level of safety along Shore Line East. The routine drill is required by the Federal Railroad Administration and is a component of safety training at CTDOT. It is designed to reinforce and fine-tune emergency response protocols of train crews, dispatchers, first responders, and others, as well as the coordination and real-life application of communication and incident command protocols. After the simulation concludes, participants will meet to share their observations and discuss insights learned from the exercise. “This exercise is an important part of continuous training that train crews and first responders undertake to be prepared for any emergency,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “While the public may hear or see emergency response efforts, please know this is just a simulation. We are alerting the public ahead of time to prevent concern or worry.” CTDOT asks the media and members of the public not to attend the training exercise, as first responders, volunteers, train personnel, and participants must fully focus on the drill. 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 Highlights See Tracks? Think Train Week 2026

Web Version     CTDOT Highlights See Tracks? Think Train Week 2026 Posted on September 22 , 2026 Campaign raises awareness of rail safety and encourages the public to stay off the tracks The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) and Operation Lifesaver today highlighted See Tracks? Think Train Week 2026 at the Berlin Train Station, highlighting the importance of rail safety and encouraging the public to stay off railroad tracks and exercise caution at railroad crossings. With over 600 miles of railroad track and more than 600 at-grade crossings across Connecticut, CTDOT encourages everyone to stay off railroad tracks, obey warning signs and signals, and never attempt to beat a train. As part of the statewide effort to raise awareness about rail safety, Governor Ned Lamont has issued a special statement proclaiming September 21–27, 2026, as Rail Safety Week 2026 in Connecticut. “Connecticut has more than 600 miles of railroad track, and everyone needs to understand the dangers and stay alert around them,” said CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeff Gonneville. “Staying off the tracks, paying attention at crossings, and giving trains plenty of space are simple steps that can help keep everyone safe.” In 2025, Connecticut experienced two vehicle-train collisions, resulting in no injuries or fatalities, and 11 pedestrian-train incidents that resulted in two injuries and nine fatalities. So far in 2026, there have been 11 rail-related incidents in Connecticut, including seven pedestrian strikes, two crossing collisions, and one trespasser fall. The incidents have resulted in nine fatalities. Nationally, about every three hours, a person or vehicle is struck by a train. There are approximately 2,800 train-related incidents along the rails in the United States each year, resulting in about 1,100 fatalities. In 2025, Federal Railroad Administration statistics show 1,317 pedestrian rail trespass casualties nationwide, including 792 fatalities and 525 injuries. CTDOT and Operation Lifesaver will hold various events during See Tracks? Think Train Week 2026. Members of the media are encouraged to attend the following: Tuesday, September 22: Operation Clear Track, with CTDOT, Operation Lifesaver, local law enforcement, and other partners conducting rail crossing safety enforcement and education in North Haven, Meriden, and West Hartford Wednesday, September 23: Rail safety outreach with school bus companies Thursday, September 24: Commuter rail safety outreach at New Haven Union Station, Bridgeport Station, and Stamford Transportation Center Friday, September 25: Operation Lifesaver outreach at the Durham Fair Operation Lifesaver is a national nonprofit public safety education and awareness program dedicated to reducing collisions, fatalities, and injuries at highway-rail grade crossings and preventing trespassing on or near railroad tracks. In Connecticut, the program has been administered by CTDOT since 1996 and is supported by federal, state, and local governments, law enforcement agencies, schools, and community-based organizations. For more information on Operation Lifesaver, visit oli.org. 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