As Summer Travel Increases, So Do Safety Risks on Connecticut Roads

Web Version     As Summer Travel Increases, So Do Safety Risks on Connecticut Roads Posted on June 18 , 2026 CTDOT reminds drivers to stay alert as travel, construction, and outdoor activity increase As Connecticut enters the busy summer season, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is urging motorists to stay alert and be prepared for increased activity on the roads. Summer brings more vehicles to Connecticut’s roads as residents and visitors travel to destinations across the state. At the same time, construction crews are advancing critical infrastructure projects in active highway work zones, and more pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are out enjoying the warmer weather. Together, these conditions create a roadway environment that requires every driver’s full attention. Historically, the summer months mark the deadliest period on Connecticut's roadways. In Connecticut in 2024, the most recent year with verified data, there were 116 traffic fatalities and 587 serious injuries between June and September. More than one-third of those fatalities (38%) involved motorcyclists. “Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy everything Connecticut has to offer, but the most important destination is always getting home safely,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “As travel picks up during the summer months, we’re urging every driver to make safety a top priority. Buckling up, slowing down, staying alert, and never driving impaired are simple choices that can save lives.” “We ask all drivers to ‘think safety’ whenever they travel on the roads and highways of Connecticut,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “During the summer, we see more traffic as residents begin their vacations, take day trips to the beach, or meet with friends at barbeques. Safey means ditching the distractions, slowing down for construction zones, and following posted speed limits. Please move over when you see first responders on the side of the road helping out those in need.”  Before every trip, CTDOT encourages drivers to ask themselves: Am I giving my full attention to driving? Have I checked for road conditions, delays, or construction activity? Is everyone in the vehicle wearing a seat belt? Am I prepared to slow down and share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists? Am I rested and ready to drive safely? Taking a few moments to answer these questions can help make every trip safer and contribute to safer roads for everyone. To learn more about safe driving practices this summer, 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

Secure Your Load for Safety on the Road

National Secure Your Load Day Raises Awareness About the Dangers of Unsecured Cargo. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Secure Your Load for Safety on the Road Posted on June 4 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding drivers about the importance of securing vehicle cargo ahead of National Secure Your Load Day. Observed annually on June 6, it’s a reminder that unsecured loads can quickly become dangerous debris – leading to crashes, injuries, and even fatalities. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and roadside workers are at risk when cargo is not properly secured. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 850 people are killed and 19,000 more are injured each year because of objects in the road. Most of these crashes (73%) involve unsecured loads from passenger vehicles. In Connecticut, since 2018, there have been 1,639 crashes due to objects in the road. Of these crashes, 146 people sustained an injury due to the crash. “A single unsecured item can cause a crash that changes lives forever,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Taking a few extra moments to secure every item on your vehicle can prevent tragedy and keep Connecticut’s roads safe. Crashes caused by unsecured loads are entirely preventable.” The origins of National Secure Your Load Day trace back to 2004, when Washington resident Robin Abel launched the effort after her daughter was seriously injured by debris from an unsecured load. In 2010, Arizona father Paul Reif joined the campaign after his son was killed in a similar incident. Together, their advocacy helped grow the initiative into a nationwide safety campaign. Today, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws requiring loads to be properly secured. NHTSA recommends the following tips for properly securing your cargo load: Tie it down with rope, netting, or straps. Tie large objects directly to your vehicle or trailer. Cover the entire load with a sturdy tarp or netting. Don’t overload your vehicle or trailer. Always double-check your load to make sure it’s secure. Drivers are responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles, including securing all cargo to prevent items from dropping, shifting, leaking, or otherwise escaping the vehicle. Violations of unsecured-load laws can carry significant penalties, including fines of up to $5,000, depending on the state. For more information, visit nhtsa.gov/drive-safe-secure-your-load. 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 to Activate Work Zone Speed Cameras on June 1

Warning Period Begins Before Fines Start in July ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT to Activate Work Zone Speed Cameras on June 1 Posted on May 29 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced that automated speed cameras will begin operating in select highway work zones starting Monday, June 1, 2026, to deter speeding and improve safety for roadway workers and motorists. The Know the Zone: Automated Work Zone Speed Control Program uses speed cameras to enforce speed limits in designated highway work zones. The program has been in a testing phase since October 2025 ahead of operations beginning June 1. Data from March through May 2026 shows widespread speeding in highway work zones. During testing across multiple work zones, speed cameras detected more than 8.4 million vehicles, with approximately 1.36 million vehicles driving above the posted work zone speed limit. Additionally, more than 4,000 drivers were detected traveling over 85 mph, including more than 150 traveling over 100 mph. Beginning June 1, 2026, initial deployments will be located at three active projects: I-95 Interchange 43 in West Haven I-95 Interchange 74 in East Lyme Route 2 in Colchester Additional automated speed cameras will be deployed at work zones identified for improved safety enforcement. From June 1 through July 5, 2026, the system will issue warning notices for drivers traveling 10 mph or more over the posted work zone speed limit. Beginning July 6, penalties include a written warning for a first offense and a $75 fine for a second violation within one year. Any vehicle traveling 85 mph or more in a work zone will receive a $75 fine, including on a first offense. Violations under the program do not result in insurance points or appear as moving violations on a driver’s driving record. “Work zone speed cameras are a proven tool to slow drivers down and discourage dangerous behavior,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Lower speeds in work zones mean safer conditions for roadway crews, fewer crashes, and safer travel for everyone moving through active work zones. I hope no one receives a citation because that would mean everyone is doing their part to keep work zones safe.” “Work zones are active job sites, and every person working there deserves to go home safely at the end of the day,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “Automated work zone speed cameras are an innovative tool to help our Troopers to slow drivers down and disrupt dangerous behavior. They will protect workers, first responders, and the traveling public. When you enter a work zone, pay attention, obey the posted speed limit, and drive like lives depend on it, because they do.” Advance signage will be posted in active work zones to notify motorists when automated speed camera enforcement is in use. The system uses radar to detect vehicles traveling 10 mph or more above the posted speed limit and captures images to document potential violations. All cases are reviewed by the Division of State Police within the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection prior to issuance of a Notice of Liability. Facial features are masked in images where vehicle occupants are visible. For more information on Know the Zone: Automated Work Zone Speed Control Program, visit portal.ct.gov/KnowTheZone. 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 Safety Patrol Expands Hours for Busy Summer Travel

Weekend hours added along the I-95 and Route 15 corridors. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Safety Patrol Expands Hours for Busy Summer Travel Posted on May 28 , 2026 As an especially busy travel season begins, driven by the World Cup, America 250 celebrations, and other major events across the Northeast, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced expanded hours for the CTDOT Safety Patrol. Starting on Saturday, May 30 through Sunday, July 19, 2026, the Safety Patrol along I-95 and Route 15 will have temporary expanded hours to include Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. “Summer travel means more vehicles on the road, and with major events like the World Cup and America 250 bringing even more activity to the region, expanding these hours to include weekends ensures the Safety Patrol will be there to lend a hand to anyone who needs it,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Every year, the Safety Patrol helps thousands of drivers throughout the state. This free service is part of our broader commitment to keep Connecticut moving safely, especially during an exceptionally busy summer.” WATCH: Interview with Safety Patrol Driver The Safety Patrol, sponsored by GEICO, provides roadside assistance at no charge, including changing flat tires, jump-starting vehicles, and moving disabled vehicles to the shoulder. Each year, the Safety Patrol responds to nearly 15,000 service calls in Connecticut. In addition to assisting stranded motorists, the Safety Patrol works with emergency responders at incident scenes. They clear debris from the highway to improve traffic flow and prevent future incidents. The original CTDOT Highway Assistance Motorist Patrol program launched in 1995 on I-95 using four trucks. Today, there are 15 vehicles patrolling the state’s major highways. CTDOT Safety Patrol proactively patrols I-84, I-91, I-95, I-291, I-395, Route 2, Route 7, Route 8, and Route 15 and are on the lookout for stranded motorists needing assistance and any incidents on the roadways. The Safety Patrol will also be dispatched by CTDOT’s Highway Operations Centers in Newington and Bridgeport, as well as the Connecticut State Police. If someone experiences a breakdown or an emergency on the highway, the safest place to be is inside the vehicle. Do not exit the vehicle, even for a brief moment. Pull over safely, stay inside, call 911, keep your seat belt on, and wait for help to arrive. To learn more about the CTDOT Safety Patrol, visit portal.ct.gov/SafetyPatrol. 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 Drivers: Don’t Drink and Drive this Memorial Day

The national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign will run throughout the holiday weekend. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Reminds Drivers: Don’t Drink and Drive this Memorial Day Posted on May 22 , 2026 As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and law enforcement agencies across the state to remind motorists about the dangers of impaired driving. The national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign will run throughout the holiday weekend, with increased patrols and enforcement efforts to identify and remove impaired drivers from Connecticut roads. “As Memorial Day marks the start of the busy travel season, we’re urging everyone to make safety their top priority. That begins with responsible choices behind the wheel,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Deputy Commissioner Laoise King. “Driving sober isn’t just the right choice – it’s a lifesaving one. By planning ahead and making sure you have a safe ride home, you’re doing your part to keep Connecticut’s roads safe.” In Connecticut in 2024, the most recent year with verified data, 105 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes, representing 34% of all fatalities that year. According to NHTSA, approximately 32 people in the United States lose their lives every day in drunk-driving crashes, equal to one death every 44 minutes. In 2024, 11,904 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes nationwide. Every one of these tragedies was preventable. “Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and the Connecticut State Police will be ready,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “Our troopers will be out in force throughout the holiday weekend. If you choose to drive impaired, expect to be stopped, arrested, and held accountable. Make a plan, designate a sober driver, and help ensure every family reaches their destination safely.” “Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and is often celebrated with gatherings, events, and parties,” said Chief Joshua Bernegger of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association (CPCA). “Connecticut’s police officers remind everyone to designate a sober driver if consuming alcoholic beverages, or risk arrest for DUI. Please help Connecticut’s law enforcement community keep our roads safe this holiday weekend.” CTDOT and its safety partners are reminding drivers to take a few simple precautions before celebrating: Do not drive if you’ve been drinking. Never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs, including cannabis or certain prescription medications that may impair your ability to drive safely. Plan ahead. Make transportation plans ahead of time by using a rideshare service, public transportation, a taxi, or a designated sober driver. Look out for others. Speak up if someone you know is attempting to drive impaired and help them find a safe alternative. Be alert. Stay alert on the road and report suspected impaired drivers to law enforcement by calling 911 when it is safe to do so. For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, 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

A Call for Shared Roadway Responsibility During Older Americans Month

Help protect older adults on Connecticut roadways ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     A Call for Shared Roadway Responsibility During Older Americans Month Posted on May 14 , 2026 With May marking Older Americans Month, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services (CTADS), and Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CTDMV) are encouraging safer, more attentive driving habits to help protect older adults on Connecticut roadways. In Connecticut in 2024, there were 1,474 crashes involving pedestrians and 61 pedestrian fatalities. Nationwide in 2024, 7,080 pedestrians were killed, and more than 71,000 were injured. “Older Americans are vital members of our communities. Whether they are walking, driving, or riding as passengers, they deserve to feel safe every time they are traveling,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “We all share the responsibility of staying alert, slowing down, and making safe choices behind the wheel so that every traveler, of every age, can get to their destination safely.” “Older Americans Month reminds us that aging is about staying connected and engaged. Safe, accessible transportation supports that independence,” said Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services Commissioner Amy Porter. “By staying alert and sharing the road with care, we can help ensure older adults remain safe and active in our communities.” “The Department of Motor Vehicles is committed to supporting older Americans as they continue to drive, stay independent, and remain engaged in their communities,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Tony Guerrera. “The DMV also encourages drivers aged 60 and older to take advantage of approved driving courses, which may qualify them for insurance discounts through participating insurers. Visit our website, ct.gov/dmv to learn more.” The 2026 theme of Older Americans Month is “Champion Your Health,” highlighting the importance of making choices that support overall well-being. Transportation plays a critical role in helping older adults access essential services, remain active, and maintain independence, reinforcing the importance of roadway safety as part of healthy aging. CTDOT continues to promote its “Words to Live By” public education campaign for older pedestrians in collaboration with AARP Connecticut and Watch for Me CT through May. This initiative raises awareness about the unique safety needs of older pedestrians and aligns with the mission of Older Americans Month. Drivers are reminded of the following safety practices to help protect older adults traveling as drivers, pedestrians, and passengers: Stay aware of all road users. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians all play a role in creating safer roadways by remaining alert and looking out for one another. Adjust speed in areas with higher pedestrian activity. Slowing down near intersections, neighborhoods, and driveways provides more time to react to unexpected movement. Yield fully and patiently at crosswalks. Older pedestrians may need additional time to cross safely, allow space, and never rush through crossings. Be cautious around stopped vehicles. If a vehicle has stopped at a crosswalk, do not pass it; pedestrians may be crossing out of view. Stay focused and avoid distractions. Keeping full attention on the road helps drivers better anticipate slower movement or sudden actions. Drive responsibly and follow all traffic laws. This includes obeying speed limits and never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Use extra caution in low-visibility conditions. Nighttime, rain, and other conditions can make pedestrians harder to see. Check surroundings when reversing. Pedestrians, particularly those with limited mobility, may not be immediately visible. For more information on pedestrian safety, 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