A simple walk shouldn’t result in a life-altering injury. Unfortunately, for many in Connecticut, this is the reality. Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, with accidents often resulting in severe injuries. Fatalities for pedestrian-involved accidents increased by over 50% between 2010 and 2020. In addition, they are twice as likely to die in an accident as motorists. Learn more about pedestrian accident statistics in Connecticut from our pedestrian accident law firm and what you should do if you’ve been injured in an accident below:
Connecticut Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Pedestrian accidents hit a record high in 2022 with over 7,500 fatalities nationwide, including 72 in Connecticut. Despite slight declines since then, safety remains critical. In 2025, 1,661 crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists resulted in 208 serious injuries, underscoring the ongoing risk. The data show that dusk-to-dawn hours and fall months are especially dangerous, underscoring the need for vigilance.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
As local New Haven County lawyers, we know Connecticut roadways and where accidents are most likely to occur. We use this information to build your case so you’re fairly compensated for your injuries after an accident. Here are some common causes of accidents in Connecticut:
Speeding
Speeding is the number one cause of pedestrian accidents in Connecticut, according to CTDOT. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, especially in congested areas and city centers with high foot traffic. It only takes a slight increase in speed to cause fatalities to rise exponentially. People on foot who are hit by a car going 40 mph have an 85% chance of being killed. However, people hit by cars traveling at half that speed are only 5% at risk of dying in an accident.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, especially cell phone use, is one of the leading causes of all accidents in Connecticut. Using a cell phone while driving is illegal on Connecticut roadways, yet it remains a major concern. Eating, grooming, and caring for young children or pets while driving are also causes of distracted driving accidents.
Failure To Yield
In Connecticut, pedestrians have the right-of-way most of the time, even in unmarked crosswalks. Motorists must slow down and yield to them whenever they indicate their intention to cross the street, such as by stepping off the curb into the roadway or raising their hand to signal their approach.
Driving Under The Influence
Driving while using drugs or alcohol impairs your judgment and is extremely dangerous. These substances impair your vision, depth perception, and reaction time, making it impossible to operate a car properly. Under Connecticut’s dram shop laws, bars and restaurants could be held liable if they intentionally over-serve a visibly intoxicated patron who is later involved in an accident.
Pedestrian Laws In CT
Just as drivers need to obey all traffic laws, walkers, joggers, skateboarders, and roller bladers must also follow guidelines to ensure their own safety. These laws are detailed in CGS 14-300, which requires motorists to yield to pedestrians in most circumstances, even at unmarked crosswalks. Motorists need to slow down or stop to grant the pedestrian the right of way when they show intent to cross, such as stepping off the sidewalk into the street or waving their hand. Connecticut law also requires pedestrians to use sidewalks whenever they are available and reasonable to use. If they must walk in the roadway, they should face oncoming traffic and stay as close to the shoulder as possible. Walkers and joggers should only cross a street when it’s safe to do so. Fines can be up to $500, but the cost of dealing with serious injuries due to an accident is far greater.
Filing a Claim After A Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident, it’s vital to seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. You may not notice the full extent of your injuries for several hours or days afterward. Make sure a police report is filed and document the accident scene. Note signs indicating walkways, traffic patterns, and hazards that may have contributed to the accident. Then, get in touch with a pedestrian accident law firm, like our team at Moore, O’Brien & Dufour, to discuss your options for receiving compensation. You have two years from the accident date to file your claim.
Moore, O’Brien & Dufour: Pedestrian Accident Law Firm In New Haven County, CT
Given the potential for severe injuries, prioritizing immediate medical care is essential. Once you have been treated, reach out to the experienced legal team at Moore, O’Brien & Dufour. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are committed to helping you secure the fair compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of recovering millions of dollars for clients across New Haven County and all over Connecticut who have suffered significant injuries. To discuss your case, contact our pedestrian accident law firm at 203-586-0022 or book an appointment online today.