A serious nine‑vehicle collision just outside a work zone on Interstate 291 near South Windsor has highlighted the dangers of speeding in Connecticut construction areas. The crash sent several victims to the hospital, and a preliminary police report identified excessive speed as a contributing factor.
DOT warns of widespread speeding
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) says that more than one‑third of vehicles traveling through active work zones are exceeding the speed limit, with about 5% driving more than 10 mph over and some reaching speeds of 80, 90, or even 100 mph. The highest speed recorded to date was 119 mph.
“We have been hearing this for years from our crews and contractors, and that is, people are driving too fast, they are driving distracted,” said Eva Zymaris, a spokesperson for the DOT. She added that the actions of drivers affect not only themselves but also the families of the workers who keep our highways safe.
Speed‑camera pilot shows results
In response to these concerns, the DOT launched a pilot program in 2023 that placed speed‑enforcement cameras in work zones across the state. The pilot achieved roughly a 20 % reduction in speeding, prompting the agency to make the program permanent about six weeks ago. The cameras now issue tickets and provide the DOT with valuable data on driver behavior in active zones.
Mobile speed cameras were deployed on Tuesday in the South Windsor area following the crash, a move welcomed by local residents who have called for stronger safety measures.
Local officials and residents demand more action
South Windsor resident Austin Lavoie said, “There needs to be work all around to make this work zone safer because there have been way too many accidents here.” The DOT has responded by adding additional signage, speed‑indicator signs, and road markings. The South Windsor Fire Department has reported five crashes in the area this summer alone.
With Labor Day weekend approaching, the DOT is reminding drivers to slow down and drive responsibly during the busy travel period, emphasizing that safety is a top priority for the crews and contractors who maintain Connecticut’s highways.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
