Speeding and running red lights are common causes of car accidents.
After one of the deadliest years on Connecticut roadways, lawmakers have passed a bill that would give communities the option to use speed limit and red-light cameras.
The automated traffic enforcement measure was passed by the Connecticut House and Senate. Gov. Ned Lamont is expected to sign the bill, according to the Connecticut Mirror. The Mirror reported that 239 drivers and passengers and 75 pedestrians died in 2022, which was the deadliest year on roadways in Connecticut in decades.
The cameras would be limited to school zones, defined pedestrian safety zones, and other locations approved by the Office of State Traffic Administration. Drivers who exceed the speed limit by 10 mph or run a red light would receive an automated ticket.
Why is speeding dangerous?
Speeding is a common factor in car accidents in Connecticut. Drivers who go too fast don’t give themselves enough time to watch for pedestrians and bicyclists. They have a reduced reaction time and need more distance to safely stop the vehicle.
A speeding car also has a greater chance of rolling over in an accident. Moreover, when crashes occur at high speeds, the injuries are often more severe than in an accident at or below the speed limit.
Why do drivers speed?
Drivers speed for a variety of reasons. They may be running late. Speeding sometimes is a result of distracted driving. A driver might be talking to a passenger and unaware of how fast the vehicle is moving.
All drivers should understand the danger of going too fast. Tips to slow down include:
- Give yourself more time for your trip.
- Check your speedometer to know how fast you’re going.
- Avoid distractions and stay focused.
- Practice calming exercises such as breathing routines if you’re feeling stressed behind the wheel.
- Use cruise control to set a specific speed (but be sure to cancel cruise control if you’re driving in a high-risk area like a construction zone).
Legal help is available for crash victims
If you are involved in a crash in which the other driver was speeding or ran a red light, it's important to understand your potential legal options. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills related to the accident. Car accidents often mean injured victims need to miss work while getting treatment. But fortunately, you may be entitled to recover damages for lost wages.
Each accident is unique, which means you may be entitled to recover other damages for losses. Because car accident cases can become complex, it’s a good idea to contact an experienced injury attorney in Connecticut to get a clear understanding of your rights.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli for a free consultation. We have experience handling complex car accident cases. Insurance companies can be difficult to handle on your own. They might downplay the nature of your injuries or say you were at fault in the accident when you did nothing wrong.
That’s why it’s important to have our law firm on your side, fighting for you every step of the way. Remember, there’s no obligation when you contact us. We work on a contingency basis. We only get paid if we win your case. Talk to us today. Tell them you mean business!