New Haven Motor Vehicle Accidents Law Blog

Most Connecticut drivers do their best to drive safely, obey the laws and avoid a crash. A fatal auto accident is often the result of driver error or some other form of negligence. The surviving families of deceased victims have legal recourse available in many of these situations. A recent accident that took the life of a woman from Hamden, though it appears she was the culpable party.

The woman was driving on Interstate 91 when she caused a serious accident. For some reason, she was driving in the wrong direction along the highway and struck a pickup truck head on. It is unclear at this time what led to the woman's seemingly careless mistake, though further details may become available once the official investigation is completed. 

The state of Connecticut is still criss-crossed with train tracks, and though it might seem a picturesque nod to an era long passed, residents should be aware that the tracks are still active and used daily by commuter and freight trains. Though many drivers consider it a bother to stop when the safety rails lower, indicating a train is approaching, state police are urging people to stop as soon as the signal begins, even if they think the train is still a long way off. During the recent Rail Safety Week, officials have started a campaign to help people avoid becoming a victim of a public transit accident. 

In what Connecticut police have dubbed "Operation Clear the Tracks," an effort is being made to warn drivers and pedestrians to stay off the tracks. Though many places where vehicle traffic crosses a train track have warning lights and safety rails, people who cross on foot or an off-road vehicle may have no warning at all. It has been estimated that thousands of people are injured attempting to cross train tracks nationwide every year. 

Car shows can be an exciting way for families to spend time together. Even people that are not thrilled by the automotive displays can enjoy good food, live music and a few hours outside with their loved ones. Most car shows in Connecticut have strict rules to help keep patrons stay safe, but when people disregard these safety guidelines, there is an enormous risk for a pedestrian accident. 

Recently, a father and son made their way to a car show sponsored by the local police department. To help keep the event safe, Connecticut police posted the rules days in advance on social media and also on signs at the event. One of the posted rules was "no burnouts." A burnout is a maneuver in which a driver attempts to rev the engine and make the tires smoke to impress the crowd. This can be dangerous for people on foot because if the stunt is not executed properly a vehicle can easily speed off out of control. 

Many daycare centers across the state of Connecticut try to get the children out for a walk. Some fresh air and a stroll along a familiar route through the community can be an exciting part of a child's day. Though daycare workers prioritize safety, and do their best to keep their group of small children organized, these walks can bring about an increased risk of a pedestrian accident.

Recently, a daycare group had children walking hand in hand, with a care worker at each end of the line. The daycare workers explain that by taking daily walks, the children have the opportunity to be part of their community. As the group began to cross a street, a driver, who by several reports was speeding, struck the group of children.