women stopped by traffic police

Speeding

For decades, speeding – and driving too fast for conditions – has been a factor in one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities nationally. It’s a problem that continues to grow. Significant increases in speeding violations have been observed nationally since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 
Connecticut, the percentage of speed-related fatal crashes in 2020 was the second highest in five years and higher than the national average.

Speeding puts everyone’s lives at risk – driver, passengers, occupants of other vehicles, law enforcement and even pedestrians and bicyclists. Connecticut is focused on reducing speeding related fatalities through education and enforcement. 

By the numbers

  • 7,934: number of speeding citations in Connecticut in 2022
  • 25.3%: Percentage of fatal crashes involving excessive speed in 2021
  • 38.5%: Percentage of fatal accidents crashes involving excessive speed for teen drivers in 2020 - 2021
fast moving vehicle

Laws

It is illegal to drive over the posted speed limit on all roads in Connecticut. It is also illegal to drive too fast for conditions such as wet or icy roads, poor visibility and poorly lit areas – even if you are under the posted speed limit. Many people think you can legally drive a little over the speed limit, especially when passing, but it is not true. Law enforcement can pull you over and give you ticket for even driving just a few miles per hour over the speed limit.

2 car crashed in a highway due to speeding

Penalties

Penalties for speeding vary by location and documented speed. But fines can range from $200 to $500 and might include a mandatory court date.

Speeding facts

Most speeding fatalities DON'T happen on highways. In fact, from 2017 - 2021:


35.6% of vehicles posted speed limits of 30mph or less
24.4% posted speed limts of 35 or 40mph
16.5% posted speed limits of 45 or 50mph

Drive to save lives – what we’re doing

Connecticut has collaborated with other New England States including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine on a campaign to address the speeding issue.  Titled, “When Speeding Kills, it’s Never an Accident,” the campaign reminds drivers that speeding is both a deadly and a conscious decision.

  • Advertising includes television, radio, internet, billboards and bus panels.
  • To supplement paid advertising, we garner significant press coverage through frequent press conferences and news releases.
  • Public outreach at sporting and concert venues, health and safety fairs and civic organizations reaches the public in person.
  • HSO leaders also work with state legislators to promote stronger laws and penalties around speeding.
  • Campaigns coincide with Connecticut’s deadliest months for speeding – summer.
  • Campaign also coincides with enforcement mobilization.

When speeding kills it is never an accident

Rural speeding: "slow down"

Drive to save lives – what you can do

Know the limits

Obey all posted speed limits, even when passing. If you can’t pass safely without going over the limit, do not pass.

Use cruise control

Use cruise control functions when possible to maintain legal speeds.

Slow for conditions

If conditions are not ideal, such as wet or icy roads or limited visibility, reduce your speed.

Expect the unexpected

Reduce your speed in unfamiliar areas, when pedestrians or bicyclists are present and when entering a work zone.

Be a role model

Parents, set good a good example for your young drivers by following the rules yourself.

Talk it out

Talk to your young drivers about the dangers of speeding and hold them accountable.