Click It or Ticket Campaign Begins May 11

National seat belt enforcement effort runs through May 31. ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Click It or Ticket Campaign Begins May 11 Posted on May 11 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in partnership with the Connecticut State Police and local law enforcement agencies, is joining a national effort to keep motorists safe leading up to and during the Memorial Day holiday. The Click It or Ticket national seat belt enforcement campaign begins on May 11, 2026 and runs through May 31, 2026. Law enforcement officers across Connecticut will be out in full force, issuing citations to drivers and passengers who fail to buckle up. The campaign aims to reinforce the importance of seat belt use and reduce preventable injuries and fatalities on Connecticut roadways. In 2024, the last year of verifiable data, there were 9,758 unbuckled passenger vehicle occupants killed in crashes in the United States. In Connecticut that same year, preliminary data shows that 57 people lost their lives on Connecticut roadways while not wearing seat belts. Connecticut continues to outperform the national average in seat belt use, with a rate of 95% in 2024 compared to 91.2% nationwide. Despite this progress, officials stress that even one unbuckled occupant is too many. Connecticut law requires all drivers and passengers, in both front and back seats, to wear seat belts. Fines begin at a minimum of $92 for a first offense. “Seat belts save lives and wearing one remains the single most effective way to reduce the risk of serious injury or death in a crash,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “As traffic increases heading into the summer months, we’re reminding everyone that buckling up should be automatic, every trip, every time.” “Safety is always the number one priority for Connecticut State Troopers patrolling local roads and state highways,” said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. “As travel lanes become more crowded during the busy summer months, this is the best time to remind drivers and passengers to buckle up for safety. Please, take care of yourself and your passengers by buckling up.” “Connecticut’s seat belt law exists to save lives and reduce the severity of injuries in crashes,” said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. “Not wearing a seat belt doesn’t just put you at risk; it can also lead to a $92 fine. Buckle up every time, in every seat.” For more information, please visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/click-it-or-ticket.  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 Urges Drivers and Riders to Share the Road

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Urges Drivers and Riders to Share the Road Posted on May 8 , 2026 As warmer weather brings more motorcyclists onto Connecticut roadways, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is reminding all drivers that safety is a shared responsibility during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month this May. Motorcyclists face greater risks in crashes than occupants of passenger vehicles. In Connecticut, more than 50 motorcyclists are killed in crashes each year – reinforcing the need for awareness, education, and safe driving behaviors. According to 2024 NHTSA data, 6,228 riders were killed in crashes across the country, representing 15% of all fatalities. Motorcyclists were 27 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants. Speeding and alcohol impairment continue to be the cause of many of these crashes. “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an important reminder that every decision we make on the road matters,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “No matter how you travel, staying alert, following the law, and looking out for one another can prevent crashes and save lives. Let’s work together to ensure everyone gets to their destinations safely.” CTDOT works year-round to reduce motorcycle-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities through education, outreach, and training programs. A cornerstone of this effort is the Connecticut Rider Education Program (CONREP), which provides essential training for new and experienced riders and is required to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Connecticut. Registrations for classes are currently open, with more information available at portal.ct.gov/dot/travel-gateway/motorcycle-resources. Motorcycle safety is a two-way responsibility. Both riders and drivers play a critical role in preventing crashes. Safety Reminders for Drivers: Always check blind spots and look twice for motorcycles when changing lanes or turning Maintain a safe following distance Use turn signals and exercise extra caution at intersections Never drive distracted or impaired Safety Tips for Motorcyclists: Wear a DOT-certified helmet and full protective gear Ride sober and distraction-free Obey all traffic laws and speed limits Increase visibility with bright or reflective gear Take a rider education course and continue to build skills CTDOT encourages residents to carry these safety habits beyond May and throughout the riding season. For more information on motorcycle safety and training opportunities, visit portal.ct.gov/dot/travel-gateway/motorcycle-resources. 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 Celebrates National Bike Month

CTDOT is encouraging residents across the state to get outside and go for a ride ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Celebrates National Bike Month Posted on May 6 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is celebrating National Bike Month this May by encouraging residents across the state to get outside and go for a ride. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or getting back on a bike for the first time in years, May is the perfect time to explore your community on wheels. As part of National Bike Month, CTDOT took part in National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. CTDOT will also be participating in Bike to Work Day on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. “National Bike Month highlights the benefits of bicycling and the importance of providing safe, accessible options for people who choose to walk, bike, or roll,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “By taking part in Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day or Bike to Work Day, schools and businesses are helping create a culture of active, sustainable transportation statewide.” In 2005, CTDOT established a Safe Routes to School Program (SRTS). Since then, many communities participating in the SRTS Program have shown improved safety and accessibility for all students. The CTDOT SRTS Team has now expanded their bike and pedestrian safety and skills trainings to include an on-bike component. Communities and schools can request these services online. CTDOT’s Active Transportation Micro-Grant Program also provides small, flexible grants to communities, schools, and organizations to fund projects that encourage walking and biking, improve safety, and foster awareness around active transportation. These micro-grants have helped implement initiatives such as bike racks, walking school buses, and pop-up safety demonstrations. This program empowers local partners to advance safe, active transportation improvements that can be implemented quickly and build momentum for longer-term infrastructure investments. Those riding their bikes in May are also encouraged to sign up for the 2026 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge. The annual campaign, which runs through May 31, challenges everyone to drive less and explore more sustainable transportation options. For more information about the challenge, including how to win a prize, visit CTrides.com/DLC. 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 Host 2026 Transportation Showcase On April 28

Register for this free event before it reaches capacity! ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     Connecticut On the Move: CTDOT To Host 2026 Transportation Showcase On April 28 Posted on April 15 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) invites the public to join the 2026 Transportation Showcase titled “Connecticut on the Move” on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The free event runs from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Parkville Market, 1390 Park Street in Hartford. Registration is now open at ctrides2026transportationshowcase.eventbrite.com/. The annual Transportation Showcase highlights how transportation decisions shape daily life across Connecticut and support the state’s economy, workforce, and communities. Through CTrides, the CTDOT program that promotes a wide range of transportation options, works to expand access to transportation, reduce congestion, and support economic growth statewide. Attendees will hear from public and private sector leaders about current initiatives, future investments, and how transportation improvements are strengthening access and opportunity across the state. “Transportation shapes daily life. It connects people to work, school, health care, and essential community resources,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Jeffrey Gonneville. “The Transportation Showcase brings public and private partners together to share progress, highlight innovation, and ensure our transportation investments deliver real benefits to residents, businesses, and communities across the state.” The free event includes networking, breakfast, and two moderated panel discussions: “Transportation Is Changing. Here’s What’s Next” will be moderated by NBC Connecticut’s Andrew Rowan and will explore major transportation investments and initiatives underway across Connecticut. “How Transportation Is Powering Connecticut’s Economy” will be moderated by Connecticut Public’s Catherine Shen and will focus on transportation’s role in economic development and regional growth. Scheduled panelists include: Jill Cahoon, Vice President, Transit & Rail Planning Lead, AECOM Chris DiPentima, CEO, Connecticut Business & Industry Association Garrett Eucalitto, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Transportation Matt Hart, Executive Director, Capitol Region Council of Governments Yvette Highsmith, Regional Vice President, Community Health Center, Inc. Dr. Eric Jackson, Executive Director, Connecticut Transportation Institute Carlos Mouta, Owner and CEO, Parkville Market Jeremy Tillunger, Director of Public Policy, Via CTDOT encourages attendees to travel by public transportation, with the event venue a short distance from the Parkville CTfastrak Station. A complimentary bus pass will be provided for those requesting one to attend the event. To learn more or reserve a spot, visit ctrides2026transportationshowcase.eventbrite.com/. 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 Launches Statewide Litter Cleanup Blitz to Address Rising Roadway Trash

Web Version     CTDOT Launches Statewide Litter Cleanup Blitz to Address Rising Roadway Trash Posted on April 13 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) today announced a statewide litter picking blitz in response to an increase in trash being discarded along state roads and highways. This initiative launched on Monday, April 13, 2026, and will run through Friday, April 17, 2026. CTDOT maintenance crews are actively removing discarded cups, bottles, fast-food containers, and other debris illegally dumped along the roadside. While the agency is committed to maintaining the state’s roadway system, it’s up to the public to do their part. “Our team is out there cleaning up day after day, but the reality is simple: the trash we’re picking up is being thrown by the public. Connecticut’s roads don’t become littered on their own,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Time spent picking up litter is time taken away from other critical roadway maintenance. The public can make a difference by properly disposing their trash.” While litter removal efforts are ongoing year-round, this targeted blitz focuses on high-impact areas where roadside debris has steadily increased in recent weeks. The campaign is being held one week prior to National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW). NWZAW is an annual spring campaign held at the start of construction season to encourage safe driving in and around highway work zones. Drivers are reminded to slow down and move over when approaching a work zone, remain alert, avoid distractions, and always drive sober. These simple actions save lives. To learn more about Work Zone Safety, visit ObeyTheOrange.com. 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 Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Campaign

Statewide effort urges drivers to stay focused as law enforcement increases patrols during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌

Web Version     CTDOT Announces Distracted Driving Awareness and Enforcement Campaign Posted on April 1 , 2026 The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today a statewide distracted driving enforcement campaign and public awareness initiative in recognition of National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. CTDOT kicked off the campaign at the Hartford Police Department. Law enforcement agencies will ramp up their distracted driving enforcement efforts in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for their "Put the Phone Away or Pay" campaign from April 1 through April 30, 2026. During this period, officers across Connecticut will focus on identifying and citing drivers who engage in unsafe behaviors such as texting, using electronic handheld devices, or otherwise diverting their attention from the road. Alongside enforcement efforts, CTDOT will continue its public awareness campaign highlighting the dangers of distracted driving and encouraging drivers to remain focused every time they get behind the wheel. Distracted driving remains a serious safety issue on roads across the country and in Connecticut. In 2023, national data from NHTSA shows 3,275 were killed in distracted driving crashes. In Connecticut in 2023, there were 5,202 crashes involving distracted driving – resulting in 12 fatalities and 78 serious injuries. "Driving requires your full attention every second you're on the road," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "Even a brief distraction, such as checking a notification or sending a quick text, can lead to devastating consequences. This campaign is a reminder that distracted driving is dangerous, illegal, and entirely preventable." "Connecticut State Troopers see the devastating and tragic effects of distracted driving on our roads and highways every day. Distracted driving crashes are preventable -- I urge all drivers to keep their full attention on the road," said Colonel Daniel Loughman, Commanding Officer of the Connecticut State Police. "When you, the motoring public, partner with us in safety, travel is safer across all of Connecticut." "Police departments across Connecticut will be actively enforcing distracted driving laws throughout April," said Watertown Police Chief Josh Bernegger, Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee. "Reducing distracted driving is a shared responsibility, and we urge drivers to put their phones down and stay focused so everyone can travel safely."  Six Tips to Avoid Distracted Driving: CTDOT encourages motorists to make safe driving a habit by eliminating distractions before and during every trip: Pull over safely if you need to text or make a call. Never handle your phone while driving. Ask a passenger to help manage navigation or messages so you can focus on the road. Avoid checking social media while driving. No message or post is worth risking a crash. Limit interaction with in-vehicle technology. Program navigation or music before starting your trip. Use your phone's "Do Not Disturb While Driving" feature or silence notifications to reduce the temptation to check your device. Remember a text or a call is not worth your life, it can wait. For more information about distracted driving prevention and safety resources, visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-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