The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is issuing a critical safety reminder for all motorists: if you experience a breakdown or emergency on a highway, the safest place to be is inside your vehicle. Highways are designed for vehicles traveling at high speeds, and even a brief moment outside your car can have deadly consequences. CTDOT want all motorists to be informed and prepared to make the safest choices during roadside emergencies.
“Every time someone gets out of their car on a highway, they put themselves at serious risk,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Staying inside your vehicle with your seat belt fastened and pulling as far off the road as possible is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones. We want to prevent tragedies and keep everyone safe on our roadways.”
“Please pay attention to these basic measures to keep drivers and their passengers safe,” said Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins. “We all need to work together to make the state’s highways safer, and this is especially true on the side of a busy roadway.”
With an increase in roadside incidents and traffic-related injuries, the Connecticut State Police (CSP) is urging all drivers to stay inside their vehicles if they experience a breakdown or other roadside emergency. CSP Colonel Daniel Loughman emphasized that remaining in your vehicle is one of the safest actions you can take in these situations.
“When your vehicle is disabled, your first instinct might be to step outside and assess the problem. However, this can put you at greater risk for being involved in a roadside crash or becoming vulnerable to other dangers,” said Colonel Loughman. “Staying inside your car, and dialing 911 is the safest choice.”
CTDOT advises drivers to follow these critical safety tips in the event of a breakdown or emergency along the highway:
- Pull Over Safely: Move your vehicle into the right shoulder. If you can, position your car so it’s entirely off the roadway and away from moving traffic.
- Call for Assistance: Use your phone to call 911.
- Stay in Your Vehicle: The safest place to be is inside your car. Keep your seatbelt fastened, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for help to arrive. If you are unable to stay in your vehicle due to fire, find a location away from both the burning vehicle and from the travel lanes.
- Be Visible: At night or during inclement weather, ensure your hazard lights are on and use any reflective gear you have.
- Avoid Exiting the Vehicle: Never stand or walk on the highway, even if you think traffic is light. The speed of passing vehicles can make it difficult for drivers to react in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
“Our goal is to educate drivers and reduce the number of preventable fatalities. These simple steps could save your life,” added Commissioner Eucalitto.