New Haven’s High Accident Roadways

Apr 10th, 2024 | Car Accident

While motor vehicle accidents can occur on any road at any time, certain streets in New Haven see a significantly higher rate of collisions than others. You may unknowingly enter high-risk zones where the chances of an accident multiply, putting you and your passengers at risk. Here is what you need to know about New Haven’s high-accident roadways.

Roadways with the Most Accidents in New Haven

New Haven’s roadways present a variety of risks for drivers, but certain roads may be riskier than others. According to data from the University of Connecticut’s Connecticut Crash Data Repository, the following locations saw the most accidents between 2018 and 2021:

Interstate 91 saw 1,493 crashes.
Interstate 95 saw 1,057 crashes.
Route 10 recorded 1,396 accidents.
Route 1 saw 725 crashes.
Chapel Street had 651 crashes.
Route 80 had 577 crashes.
Whalley Avenue saw 566 accidents.
Route 63 had 564 accidents.
Grand Avenue/East Grand Avenue saw 444 crashes.
Dixwell Avenue had 419 accidents.
State Street saw 277 accidents.
Edgewood Avenue had 250 crashes.
Whitney Avenue saw 242 crashes.
Orange Street had 227 accidents.
Howard Avenue had 203 accidents.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in New Haven

Motor vehicle collisions can happen due to a mix of environmental, structural, and behavioral factors. Driver negligence often plays a role in these collisions, although poor weather and dangerous road defects may also lead to an accident.

Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted Driving: Engaging with electronic devices, eating, or any activity that diverts attention from driving increases the risk of accidents.
Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for the conditions is a common cause of serious accidents, reducing a driver’s ability to react to road changes.
Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drugs impair cognitive and motor functions, significantly heightening the likelihood of crashes.
Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, unclear road markings, and inadequate lighting can lead to accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Aggressive Driving: Behaviors such as tailgating, erratic lane changes, and failing to yield the right-of-way are prevalent causes of collisions.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Motor Vehicle Collision

If you find yourself in a motor vehicle collision, taking the right steps immediately afterward can protect both your health and legal rights. Stay calm, keep yourself safe, and consider taking the following actions:

Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if medical attention is needed. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe area to avoid further accidents and hazards.
Report the Accident: Notify the police so they can file a report. This document can be vital for insurance and legal processes.
Seek Medical Attention: Visit a healthcare professional for a full evaluation, even if you feel fine. Injuries like whiplash may not show symptoms right away, and it is important to document your injuries.
Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from all parties involved, as well as contact information for witnesses.
Document the Scene: Take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damage, and road conditions.
Contact an Attorney: Consulting with a lawyer experienced in traffic accidents can help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

After a collision, a New Haven car accident lawyer can offer critical guidance and fight for the compensation that you deserve. Schedule a legal consultation to learn more about your options and begin your journey to justice.