Connecticut State Police beef up patrols amid uptick in deaths on roadways
The state DOT says it has installed 27 new wrong-way signs equipped with cameras and flashing lights.
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Gov. Ned Lamont and state police say more police patrols are coming to Connecticut highways to address driver and pedestrian fatalities.
"It's a public health crisis what we're seeing on our roadways," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.
State officials held a press conference Thursday along Interstate 91 in Rocky Hill to address the tragedies on the state's highways.
There have been 50 deaths this year so far on Connecticut roadways, according to officials, including early Sunday morning when four people died in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 95 near exit 42 in West Haven.
Two of the victims were Norwalk natives in their 20s.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of all those who were impacted," said Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Interim Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins.
State police say they are beefing up patrols.
"We are analyzing our data type to identify the locations where we conduct enforcement. We are looking to further examine the exact areas that appear to pose the most risk," said Connecticut State Police Interim Colonel Daniel Loughman.
"We need people to slow down and drive sober and put down the distractions," said Eucalitto.
The state DOT says it has installed 27 new wrong-way signs equipped with cameras and flashing lights.
DOT says the number will go to 100 signs by the end of this year and over 200 in three years.
In this video a state trooper shows how going the wrong way on state highways will trigger those flashing lights to warn drivers to turn around.
"We need to really start having some tough conversations everywhere in Connecticut. In our schools, in our communities, in our workplaces," said Higgins.
The governor says he is sending a clear message that reckless driving is dangerous and illegal.
"Look out for each other. Use your common sense. That's what it means to be a good friend. We're making progress. We have a long way to go," said Lamont.
Police are asking anyone who sees erratic behavior on our roadways to call 911.
State police say they are also having conversations with local police chiefs for safety on town roads.
