What types of accidents are responsible for Connecticut’s rising rate of road collisions?
Auto accidents represent one of the most serious injury and death risks that the average resident of Connecticut faces on a daily basis.
According to recent data published by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, there were 303 auto fatalities in the state in 2020. That’s an increase of nearly 20% from the previous year.
All told, there are roughly 100,000 auto accidents each year in our state of varying severity.
Let’s take a closer look at auto accidents within Connecticut, and what victims of collisions (or the family members of people killed in a collision) can do to protect their legal rights.
Connecticut Auto Accidents by the Numbers
According to data compiled by the Connecticut Department of Transportation, the number of accidents occurring on state roads has risen by more than 15% over the last decade. The average state resident has a 1-in-25 chance of being in an auto accident each year.
So, what types of accidents are causing serious accidents in our state? State data shows the following:
- Drunk driving is a factor in 24% of state accidents
- Tailgating is a factor in nearly 30% of collisions
- Improper lane changes are a factor in 11% of collisions
- Failure to give right of way is a factor in 12% of collisions
- Speeding is a factor in 10% of accidents
- Improper reversing of the vehicle is a factor in 3% of collisions
- Running off the roadway accounts for 2% of annual accidents
In terms of fatal accidents, drunk and distracted driving play a large role. Driving under the influence was responsible for 74 deaths in our state last year, and distracted driving was related to more than 5,000 collisions.
What to Do in the Event of an Auto Accident?
If you are involved in an auto accident, it’s critically important to follow some basic protocols, such as:
- Calling for first aid if necessary
- Asking for witness statements
- Gathering police reports
- Taking photos and video of the scene
- Documenting lost wages and medical bills
Determining who is liable for the accident, however, may be more complex than it first appears. Additionally, insurance companies employ people who are experts at negotiation and who are incentivized to get you to settle for as little as possible, regardless of whether it is fair or now.
Speaking with an experienced auto accident attorney can help level the playing field, while ensuring that you are treated fairly under our state legal system. Finding the right legal partner can help you receive the compensation to which you are entitled for the losses you have suffered.