Connecticut

Road Safety: AAA Cites Speed As Cause For Dry Road Dangers

Researchers found that over a five year period, nearly 90 percent of fatal crashes occurred when the weather was clear, and about 80 percent of all fatal accidents happened on dry roads.

An AAA study says the most deadly weather is not when it snows or rains, but when conditions are clear and dry.

The agency cited speeding as a major factor for fatal accidents. According to AAA, deadly collisions on Connecticut’s roadways are making headlines just days into 2019.

State police have responded to a tractor-trailer wreck in Milford and a rollover accident in Suffield.

While we don’t know the exact cause of these fatal crashes, the agency stressed that drivers may be at an even greater risk on dry roads.

“People drive faster when the roads are dry and when the weather is clear,” said AAA spokesperson Amy Parmenter.

In 2018, the State Medical Examiner’s office reported that more than 300 people died in fatal crashes.

Parmenter pointed out that it doesn’t have to be snowing for a road to be dangerous.

“That’s a pretty staggering number. That’s someone dying on Connecticut roads, you know, more than one person in two days,” said Parmenter.

AAA analyzed crash data released by police departments across the country. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety,

Researchers found that over a five year period, nearly 90 percent of fatal crashes occurred when the weather was clear, and about 80 percent of all fatal accidents happened on dry roads.

Which is why Parmenter is pushing for motorists to practice safe driving habits.

“We really want to get the message out there, that just because it’s not snowing doesn’t mean that the roads are dangerous,” said Parmenter.

AAA encourages drivers to pay attention to the following rules if you’re on dry or wet roads: Slow down, drive defensively, limit distractions and never get behind the wheel if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol or tired. And always adjust driving behaviors for the conditions around you.

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