Rules to Know When Driving in Connecticut

Posted on 6 January, 2023

Driving in Connecticut can be difficult, especially in the winter months, when it gets colder and more difficult to navigate. Whether you’re a native of the state or simply visiting, you need to be aware of the unique driving requirements the state imposes. In addition to buying mandatory CT auto insurance, drivers must follow state traffic laws and abide by any directions law enforcement officers give.

The Things to Remember When Driving in Connecticut

Consider the following four Connecticut driving tips to stay safe on the road.

You Need To Have CT Auto Insurance

Buying Connecticut auto insurance is the first and most crucial requirement for Connecticut drivers. There are various types of auto insurance to choose from, so drivers need to assess their options and select the coverage that’s best for their needs. For example, if you use your car to drive for Lyft or Uber in Connecticut, you will likely need to upgrade your coverage to include commercial liability. Similarly, business auto insurance is probably necessary if you use your vehicle for business trips.

Using Hand Held Cell Phones While Driving Is Illegal

The perils of distracted driving are well-documented. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control, about 424,000 people sustain injuries yearly in accidents involving distractions. Connecticut has gone to great lengths to prevent such tragedies by outlawing cell phone use while driving. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, texting while driving is illegal for all drivers, as is using a handheld cell phone device. Furthermore, the state bans novice drivers from using both handheld and hands-free devices.

Everybody in a Car Must Wear a Seatbelt

Connecticut drivers must also adhere to the state’s safety laws regarding seatbelts. The most recent law on this topic is relatively new and became effective in October 2021. It establishes a new standard, indicating that drivers and front-seat passengers must always wear a seatbelt. The law further states that rear-seat passengers between the ages of four and 16 must wear their seatbelts, too. This law aims to minimize preventable fatalities resulting from drivers who neglect to wear seat belts.

Your CT Auto Insurance Needs To Meet State Requirements

Finally, you must ensure that your CT auto insurance meets the state’s minimum requirements. According to the State of Connecticut Insurance Department, these requirements are as follows:

Bodily injury liability coverage of at least $50,000 per accident and $25,000 per person
Property damage liability coverage of at least $25,000 per accident
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage of at least $50,000 per accident and $25,000 per person

If you aren’t sure whether your insurance meets these requirements, reach out to your provider to confirm that you have the right coverage in Connecticut.

About Byrnes Agency

At Byrnes Agency, we offer insurance solutions that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for personal policies or commercial coverage, we have the right coverage for you. To learn more about our products, contact us today at one of our two locations.

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Dayville Office

Phone: (860) 774-8549

394 Lake Rd

Dayville, CT 06241

United States

info@byrnesagency.com

Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm

Norwich Office

Phone: (860) 886-5498

6 Consumers Avenue

Norwich, CT 06360