As I was sitting down to write my annual holiday message, I learned of yet another pedestrian fatality in our region. In Connecticut, we have lost over 300 people this year on our roadways; over 66 of those lives lost were non-motorists.
At CRCOG, we work hard every day to make our roads safer. We conduct corridor studies, administer infrastructure grants, promote Complete Streets, and perform a variety of other responsibilities and tasks with the goal of improved safety in mind. We established our Vision Zero Task Force this past year and are using our federal Safe Streets for All (SS4A) grant to update our Regional Transportation Safety Plan.
The need to promote safety is even more acute now that we have entered the holiday season. In Connecticut and around the country, we typically experience a sharp increase in crashes between Thanksgiving and New Year's. That's not good.
Here are some key practices and behaviors to improve safety:
Number one, drive sober. In 2022, in Connecticut, we lost 127 people due to alcohol-impaired crashes. That was nearly 35% of all traffic-related fatalities in the state. Designate a sober driver or use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely. Report drunk drivers and prevent friends from driving drunk.
Second, wear your seat belt. In 2022, we lost 74 people on Connecticut roadways who were not wearing a seat belt.
Third, don't drive distracted. Never text or talk on the phone while driving. Be a good passenger and speak out if the driver of the car is distracted.
Fourth, slow down, move over, and pay attention near construction sites and traffic incidents. Connecticut's "Move Over" law requires drivers on a highway of two lanes or more to slow down and move over one lane for emergency responders, tow truck drivers, and any vehicle along the side of the road.
Pedestrians also need to make sure to follow safe practices. Here are some key tips for walkers and runners:
- Use the sidewalk! Don't run or walk in the road, especially after dark.
- Obey all pedestrian traffic signals
- Cross streets in well-lit areas with the best view of traffic
- Pay attention to turning cars, and don't cross mid-block or diagonally
- Be visible - Wear bright-colored clothing or reflective gear.
For this holiday season and in the new year, let's pledge to do what we can to model and promote these practices and behaviors in our communities. If we work together, we can stem the tide and reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries on our roadways. Our team at CRCOG greatly appreciates your support. We wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season!
