Franklin, a small rural town in New London County, is intersected by a number of state routes that have been the site of serious and fatal crashes. Based on police reports, recent news, and crash data from the Connecticut Crash Data Repository, the most dangerous roadways in Franklin include:
- Route 32
- Route 2
Major Routes with High Crash Rates
Route 32
- Fatal collisions – Between 2019 and 2022, Route 32 had eight fatal crashes in Franklin, more than any other town bordering Norwich. In March 2021, a head-on crash involving an ambulance killed one driver.
- Speeding and distracted driving – Excessive speed and driver inattention have been cited as major factors in many Route 32 accidents.
- Intersection accidents – In June 2019, a collision between a logging truck and a van at the intersection of Route 32 and Thompson Road resulted in a fatality.
Route 2
- Fiery crashes – Route 2 has been the site of fiery crashes in nearby towns like Marlborough, where vehicles struck embankments and flipped, causing serious injuries.
- Traffic volume – As a major regional highway, Route 2 carries heavy commuter and truck traffic, especially during peak hours, leading to a higher risk of rear-end and merging collisions.
Other Factors Contributing to Accidents
- Reckless driving – Excessive speed, unsafe passing, and other aggressive driving behaviors are common contributors to serious crashes in Franklin.
- Rural hazards – Curves, poor visibility, and the presence of wildlife on Franklin’s rural roads add to the risks.
- Intersection safety – The intersection of Route 32 and Thompson Road is a well-known problem area, but other intersections in town can also be hazardous when traffic is heavy.
- Vulnerable road users – In June 2025, a serious motorcycle crash was reported on Lebanon Road, underscoring the risks for motorcyclists and other vulnerable road users.
Safety Initiatives
In response to high crash rates, Connecticut State Police and local officials have stepped up enforcement on Route 32 and other dangerous stretches. Measures include speed-detecting signs, targeted patrols, and distracted driving crackdowns. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has also begun infrastructure projects and safety programs aimed at reducing serious and fatal crashes in the region.
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
Franklin’s mix of high-speed highways, rural hazards, and dangerous intersections creates real risks for drivers. Whether traveling on Route 32, Route 2, or local roads like Lebanon Road, slowing down, staying alert, and driving defensively are key to reducing crashes.
Protect Yourself
Franklin’s rural conditions, heavy traffic on major highways, and history of fatal crashes make extra caution essential. Whether you’re commuting on Route 32, merging onto Route 2, or navigating local intersections, driving attentively and reducing speed are critical for safety.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Franklin car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The experienced attorneys at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP are here to protect your rights.
Call us today at (203) 438-7450 for a free consultation, or visit www.hcwlaw.com to learn more about protecting your case.