Griswold, located in New London County and home to Jewett City, is intersected by several major highways and rural state routes that have seen their share of serious and fatal crashes. Based on police reports, crash data, and recent news, the most dangerous roadways in Griswold include:
- Interstate 395 (I-395)
- Route 138
- Route 201
Major Routes with High Crash Rates
Interstate 395 (I-395)
- Fatal collisions – In August 2024, a truck driver was killed after his vehicle struck a guardrail, rolled over, and went down an embankment between Exits 28 and 24.
- High traffic volume – The heavy flow of vehicles, especially during peak hours and near construction zones, increases the risk of rear-end and merging crashes.
Route 138
- Head-on collisions – In June 2023, a fatal head-on crash occurred near Oakville Road after a driver failed to stay in their lane.
- Crash history – This corridor continues to be a site of serious crashes due to speeding and driver error.
Route 201
- Tragic history – In December 2010, four teenagers were killed and a fifth critically injured when a car driven by a 16-year-old struck a tree on Route 201.
- Single-vehicle incidents – High-speed crashes involving vehicles going off the road remain a recurring problem.
Notorious Intersections and Areas
- Hopeville Road (near #1089) – In June 2024, a fatal crash occurred when a pickup truck failed to yield and struck a motorcycle, killing the rider. The driver was later charged with negligent homicide.
- Main Street (Jewett City Borough) – In August 2024, a driver lost control on a curve, struck a pedestrian on the sidewalk, and crashed into the post office building. The pedestrian was killed, and the driver was charged with manslaughter.
- Route 138 and Route 201 intersection – This area is remembered as the site where emergency crews responded following the December 2010 crash that killed four teenagers.
Factors Contributing to Accidents
- Reckless and impaired driving – Drunk driving and excessive speed have played roles in some of Griswold’s most devastating crashes, including the fatal pedestrian crash on Main Street.
- Dangerous road design and conditions – Rural curves, poor visibility, and inadequate infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists make local and state roads riskier.
- Single-vehicle crashes – Incidents involving cars striking trees, poles, or running off the road are frequent on Griswold’s rural routes.
- Pedestrian vulnerability – The fatal pedestrian incident on Main Street underscores the danger for vulnerable road users in areas lacking proper sidewalks or crossings.
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
From I-395 to rural routes like 138 and 201, Griswold’s roads pose dangers ranging from high-speed highway crashes to single-vehicle rural incidents. Drivers should slow down, avoid distractions, and take extra care when approaching intersections and pedestrian areas.
Protect Yourself
Griswold’s mix of high-speed highways, crash-prone rural roads, and pedestrian hazards makes driving particularly risky. Whether you’re commuting on I-395, traveling Route 138, or navigating Route 201, defensive driving and reduced speeds are critical for safety.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Griswold 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.