According to the Connecticut Department of Transportation, 104,187 motor vehicle accidents occurred in the state in 2008. Of this number, 280 fatalities occurred. Additionally, 2,362 of these injuries resulted from wrecks in which alcohol was suspected to be a contributing factor. Figures like these are compiled by the Department of Transportation each year in a aggregated report.
Typically, these reports include information based on roadways and are maintained by the state. Much of the information derives from car accident reports prepared and submitted by law enforcement agencies throughout the state. Motor vehicle accidents resulting in fatalities or injuries or causing property damage that exceeds $1,000 must be reported to the Department of Transportation. This responsibility typically falls upon the law enforcement officials who investigate the accident. They are required to file a copy of the accident report with the Department of Transportation.
It is important to note that reports prepared by the Department of Transportation may evince certain deficiencies in data, and this is due to multiple factors. For instance, some individuals involved in accidents fail to report the event, and some wrecks failed to meet the minimum standard for a reportable accident.
Purportedly, the Department of Transportation analyzes each accident report, attempting to ascertain the location and underlying causes of each accident. Furthermore, the department supplies oversight to help ensure that the database is updated. The Department of Transportation’s report organizes data based on various categories of traffic accidents, including but not limited to accidents involving alcohol, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents and pedestrian accidents.
Individuals who are injured in motor vehicle accidents have the right to discuss their case with a personal injury lawyer. In the event that civil action is warranted, the accident reports might play a critical factor in the outcome of the case.
Source: Connecticut department of transportation, “INTRODUCTION“, October 22, 2014
