We have all seen it, a driver passing us on the highway with their eyes glued to their phone or a friend quickly checking a message at a red light. Distracted driving has become a common occurrence in Connecticut’s everyday traffic. Most of us know it is dangerous, but what many people don’t realize is just how common it is, and how much worse it is getting.
According to the Connecticut Highway Safety Office, 5,318 crashes in 2022 were attributed to distracted driving, resulting in 8 fatalities and over 787 injuries. Data from the Connecticut Crash Data Repository confirms that distracted-driving incidents remain consistently high year over year. On a national level, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that thousands of people are killed each year in distracted driving crashes, and hundreds of thousands are injured. When viewed in this context, Connecticut’s numbers are a sobering reminder that this is not a rare problem, it’s a major public health issue.
Connecticut law prohibits the use of hand-held mobile phones or electronic devices while driving. For drivers under 18, the rules are even stricter; no phone use is allowed at all, even with hands-free technology. Penalties for violating Connecticut’s distracted driving law start at $200 for a first offense, rise to $375 for a second offense, and $625 for a third or subsequent offense. Importantly, Connecticut law also provides for double or treble damages in cases where a driver acted with “reckless disregard”. This statute, C.G.S. § 14-295, can significantly increase the damages available to victims of serious crashes.
The consequences of distracted driving are far-reaching. Injuries can range from minor to catastrophic, often leading to significant medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and lasting disability. Beyond physical injuries, there is emotional trauma and the ongoing stress of caregiving and financial strain. Proving distracted driving can be complex. Attorneys often rely on phone records, eyewitness accounts, vehicle data, and even traffic camera footage to demonstrate that distraction was a substantial factor in causing the crash.
Connecticut is actively working to raise awareness. In April 2025, the Connecticut Department of Transportation launched its “Distracted Driving Is a Beast” campaign, featuring public service announcements designed to highlight the danger of phone use while driving. Law enforcement has also stepped up enforcement efforts, particularly during Distracted Driving Awareness Month. In addition, technology tools such as Do Not Disturb While Driving modes and apps are helping drivers limit temptation and focus on the road. The combination of stronger laws, public education, and better technology aims to turn the tide against this dangerous trend.
Distracted driving is more than just a bad habit, it’s a growing public safety crisis. Thousands of crashes, hundreds of injuries, and multiple deaths each year in Connecticut are caused by drivers taking their eyes off the road for just seconds. Each of us has a role to play in addressing this issue, whether by driving responsibly, supporting stronger enforcement, or raising awareness.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted driver, you may have legal options. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Berkowitz and Hanna, LLC can help you determine whether the driver’s conduct rises to the level of recklessness under C.G.S. § 14-295 and whether you may be entitled to double or treble damages. If you believe you or someone you care about has been harmed by a distracted driver, reach out today. Contact the experienced attorneys at Berkowitz and Hanna, LLC if you have any questions about your legal rights regarding this concern. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, call 203-989-9540 or contact us online today.
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