A Growing Danger on Connecticut Streets
Pedestrian fatalities in Connecticut have climbed in recent years, with dozens of walkers killed annually and many more seriously injured. The danger is greatest in dense urban centers like Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and Stamford, where heavy traffic mixes with crosswalks, transit stops, and busy sidewalks, and along high-speed arterial roads where drivers travel too fast for areas with foot traffic. A person on foot has no protection against a vehicle, so even a low-speed strike can cause devastating injuries.
Connecticut's Crosswalk and Right-of-Way Laws
Connecticut law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks, and a 2021 update strengthened pedestrian protections by requiring drivers to stop, not just slow, when a pedestrian steps to the curb or signals an intent to cross. When a driver violates these duties by speeding, failing to yield, running a red light, or driving distracted, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Distracted driving, failure to yield at crosswalks, speeding, drivers turning without checking for pedestrians, poor visibility at night, and impaired driving are leading causes of pedestrian strikes in Connecticut. In many cases, more than one party shares responsibility, including municipalities that failed to maintain safe crossings or adequate lighting.
Recovering Compensation After Being Struck
Pedestrian injuries are frequently catastrophic: fractures, internal injuries, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries are common. You may be entitled to recover the full cost of medical care, rehabilitation, lost income, future earning capacity, and pain and suffering. If you were struck by a driver, the driver's auto insurance, and potentially your own UM/UIM coverage, may apply. A free case review is the best way to understand your options.
Injured in Connecticut? Get a free, confidential case review today. There's no obligation, and you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
Frequently Asked Questions
Often yes. Connecticut's comparative negligence rule lets you recover as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. Drivers have a strong duty to watch for and yield to pedestrians.
You may still have a claim. Property owners and drivers owe duties of care in lots and driveways, and these cases can involve both the driver's insurance and premises liability.
Generally two years from the date of injury under Connecticut law, with some exceptions. Reach out promptly to protect your rights.