Connecticut Launches Major Speeding Enforcement Campaign on Rural Roads
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT), in collaboration with local and state law enforcement agencies, has launched a 91-day enforcement campaign targeting speeding and reckless driving on rural roads. The campaign, which runs from March 1 to May 30, 2025, is funded by a $2 million federal grant from the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) High Risk Rural Roads grant.
Drivers caught violating speed limits in targeted rural areas will face fines ranging from $200 to $500, and in some cases, mandatory court appearances.
The Need for Stricter Enforcement on Rural Roads
Unlike the state’s urban centers, Connecticut’s rural road network covers 139.5 miles of critical freight corridors, nearly double the 62.75 miles of urban freight routes, according to the 2022 Connecticut Statewide Freight Plan Update. While rural roads are often perceived as quiet and scenic, data shows they are significantly more dangerous due to excessive speeding and reckless driving.
🚨 Key statistics driving the campaign:
✔ 44 rural road fatalities per year (2019-2023), accounting for 14% of all roadway deaths in Connecticut.
✔ Speeding was a factor in 25% of deadly accidents on rural roads.
✔ 94,766 total crashes and 328 fatalities were reported in 2024 statewide, according to preliminary data.
Law Enforcement Commitment to Safer Roads
Law enforcement officers statewide are emphasizing the dangerous impact of speeding, not only for drivers but also for pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.
💬 Statements from officials:
- Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz: “While Connecticut’s rural roads offer breathtaking scenery, they also see a troubling amount of dangerous driving behavior. This campaign reinforces our commitment to safer roadways.”
- Waterford Police Chief Marc Balestracci: “Speeding on rural roads doesn’t just endanger drivers. It also puts communities, schools, and businesses at risk.”
- Montville Police Chief Wilfred Blanchette III: “These roads are vital to our communities, but they can quickly become hazardous when drivers fail to follow speed limits.”
Campaign Impact and Enforcement Measures
🚔 What the campaign will focus on:
✔ Stepping up traffic enforcement—officers will conduct increased patrols and checkpoints to catch speeders.
✔ Ticketing violators—law enforcement issued 4,300 speeding citations during the 2024 campaign.
✔ Enhancing safety technology—fines collected will help fund speed detection equipment, including radar, lidar, and digital speed signs.
📢 Results from 2024 campaign:
- 7,600 traffic stops conducted statewide.
- 887 traffic stops in Montville alone, with over 110 citations for speeding, reckless, and impaired driving.
A Call for Safer Driving Habits
CTDOT Deputy Commissioner Laoise King urged drivers to “slow down, pay attention, and drive responsibly”, reinforcing the campaign’s goal to make rural roads safer for everyone. While enforcement efforts will be stronger than ever this year, officials hope that Connecticut motorists will adopt safer driving habits year-round.
With law enforcement cracking down on rural road speeders, drivers are advised to obey speed limits, stay vigilant, and avoid reckless driving behaviors to ensure safer roads for all. 🚦
Source:
Leave a Comment