Wrong Way Detection Program

The Wrong Way Detection System uses video cameras to detect vehicles that are traveling in the wrong direction. If a vehicle is detected, wrong way signs outlined with multiple sets of red lights are activated and begin flashing to alert the driver they are traveling in the wrong direction. Additionally, the system alerts the CTDOT Highway Operations Center and local State Police Troop barracks in real-time, allowing staff to monitor the activities of the wrong way driver on the ramp. Below is a list of all active locations:

CTDOT conducted an analysis of more than 700 ramp locations in Connecticut, especially where on and off-ramps are located on the same side of the road and the ramp locations are close to establishments that serve alcohol. According to national research, ramp locations with on and off-ramps on the same side of the road have a higher risk of experiencing a wrong way event. Additionally, impaired drivers are more likely to mistakenly enter the highway in the wrong direction.

Each of the 700+ ramp locations looked at received a risk factor assessment. The more risk factors found, the higher the location ranked on the priority list. 

The following were the risk factors that were part of the evaluation:

• Multiple off-ramps that meet at the same location,
• Wrong way event history,
• Presence of businesses that serve alcohol within ½ mile of the ramp,
• Presence of raised median or guiderail separating the on and off-ramps,
• Lack of sufficient highway illumination.

From this analysis, CTDOT identified 236 ramps as being high risk. These locations are the top priority to receive wrong way detection systems.