Heavy Rain, Wind Creating Hazardous Holiday Driving: Police

Connecticut State Police

State police officials say intense, wild weather expected Thursday and Friday will make this year's Christmas commute a bit more hair-raising than normal.

According to Connecticut State Police, a combination of a wet, windy forecast and an increased number of drivers on the roads could lead to traffic delays starting this Thursday, ahead of the Christmas holiday weekend.

As a result, troopers say motorists need keep that in mind when planning their holiday journeys.

“We know that many residents will begin their journeys to the homes of family and friends. With a major rain and wind storm predicted for later in the week, and with more drivers on the road, we ask everyone to be prepared and use caution,” said Colonel Stavros Mellekas, commanding officer of Connecticut State Police.

Troopers ask all motor vehicle operators to make driving arrangements beforehand, whether going to a party, a gathering or a retail destination.

Police said thousands will take to the major interstates in Connecticut.

State police offered up some driving tips to avoid any problems this year:

• Drive the speed limit.

• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.

• Ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts.

• Signal when turning, changing lanes or taking an exit.

• Refrain from texting or using your phone.

• Never consume alcoholic beverages, marijuana products or drugs, including medications that could impact driving, before you get behind the wheel.

• Immediately reduce speed to a reasonable level below the posted speed limit or move over one lane (when safe to do so) whenever law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances or tow trucks are occupying a lane and be in compliance with the state’s “Move Over” law.

Drivers are also reminded to plan their trips with care:

• Fill the gas tank prior to your journey.

• Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid and tire pressure.

• Fully charge your cell phone prior to leaving home.

• Carry winter blankets, drinking water and snacks.

• Check traffic and weather conditions before leaving home.

• Keep a shovel and sand or salt in the trunk of your vehicle.

Mellekas said the weather forecast for Thursday into Friday calls for heavy wind and rain.

“We know that weather conditions can change at any time here in Connecticut. We ask all drivers to please note any weather precautions prior to leaving for your destination. As always, your top priority should be the safety of yourself, your family and others on the road,” he said.

While on patrol, troopers will focus on distracted driving and those who may be operating under the influence.

"Please, be our partners in safety by following state traffic laws and call 911 if you see an emergency on our roads," reads a state police release.

If planning to consume alcohol, residents are strongly encouraged to designate a driver or use a ride-sharing company to keep roadways safer.

State police will be conducting roving drunk driving patrols as its means to crack down on the act and they will be doing so regularly through Jan. 1, 2023.