Generally, the more time drivers spend on the road, the greater their risk of a crash. However, where and when Connecticut motorists drive can also have some bearing on their chances of experiencing a collision. A review of crash statistics across Connecticut can help expose patterns. Drivers who are aware of local collision patterns can make more effective choices to drive defensively and reduce their risk of a wreck.
What does collision data say about the location of many crashes in Connecticut?
Urban areas see more collisions
Overall traffic density is one of the key factors that contributes to collision risk. Roads with more drivers on them tend to see more crashes even if they have lower speed limits. That being said, roads with high speed limits that cross urban centers tend to see the highest rate of wrecks.
Most of the worst crashes occur somewhere near major metropolitan areas. Hartford and New Haven see quite a few collisions. Waterbury and New London also see multiple serious crashes in any given year.
According to an analysis of fatal crashes in 2024, Southbound Interstate 91 is the most dangerous location. Five of the eight fatal crashes on I-91 reported in the first three quarters of 2024 took place on I-91 Southbound between New Haven and Hartford.
I-84 East, I-95 in both directions, I-91 North and I-84 have also all seen multiple fatal wrecks. When looking outside of urban areas, Route 6 East, Route 1 North and Route 10 North have also all had recent fatal wrecks.
When is crash risk the highest?
When looking at the timing of crashes, the summer months tend to see more serious and fatal crashes than the rest of the year. Increased drunk driving around the summer holidays and more teen drivers on the roads during the break from school each summer contribute to that risk. Motorists also generally have more risk of a crash after the sun sets than they do during the day.
Connecticut drivers who are aware of the factors that influence their collision risk can plan their travel to minimize that risk. When crashes do occur, those involved may need help pursuing compensation. Holding other negligent drivers accountable for bad choices through a personal injury claim can help injury victims limit the economic harm caused by a Connecticut car accident.
