New Haven is one of Connecticut’s busiest cities, home to Yale University, cultural landmarks, and a bustling downtown. With its heavy traffic, mix of cars, cyclists, and pedestrians, and aging infrastructure, New Haven also has some of the most hazardous roadways in the state. Crash data from the University of Connecticut’s Crash Data Repository highlights several roads and intersections where accidents occur frequently.
Major Routes with High Crash Rates
- Interstate 91
Frequently cited as New Haven’s most dangerous roadway, I-91 carries thousands of vehicles each day. Congestion, merging traffic, and speeding contribute to hundreds of crashes reported in recent years. - Route 10 (Ella T. Grasso Boulevard)
One of the city’s most hazardous local roads, Route 10 has recorded high crash numbers between 2018 and 2021. Its frequent intersections and mix of commuter and local traffic make it particularly risky. - Interstate 95 (I-95)
Running directly through New Haven, I-95 is a hotspot for collisions. High traffic volume, congestion, and aggressive driving behaviors make this corridor especially dangerous. - Chapel Street
Perhaps the most notorious local street, Chapel Street saw nearly 900 crashes on just a 1.6-mile stretch between 2019 and 2023. With heavy pedestrian and cyclist traffic, downtown congestion, and numerous crosswalks, it is a consistent crash zone. - U.S. Route 1 (Boston Post Road)
Known for congestion and commercial traffic, Route 1 experiences a significant number of crashes, particularly along sections bordering neighboring towns. - Whalley Avenue
As one of New Haven’s busiest streets, Whalley Avenue regularly sees collisions, often involving both vehicles and pedestrians.
Notorious Intersections
Certain intersections in New Haven are consistently identified as high-risk crash locations:
- Chapel Street and Sherman Avenue/Sherman Parkway – Multiple fatal pedestrian crashes have occurred here.
- College Street and South Frontage Road – Site of a fatal hit-and-run in July 2024 when a driver ran a red light.
- Middletown Avenue and Barnes Avenue – A July 2024 triple-car crash killed two people.
- Ella T. Grasso Boulevard and Columbus Avenue – A heavily trafficked, complex intersection with a history of frequent collisions.
- Willow Street and Nicoll Street – A high-accident intersection in East Rock, flagged by local safety advocates.
Key Contributing Factors
Accidents in New Haven are often caused by a mix of infrastructure challenges, high traffic volume, and driver behavior. Common contributing factors include:
- Heavy traffic and congestion, particularly on I-91 and I-95
- Outdated infrastructure on streets not designed for modern traffic volumes
- Increased risks for pedestrians and cyclists navigating busy corridors
- Reckless driver behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, and running red lights
Protect Yourself
Driving, biking, or walking in New Haven requires heightened awareness. Defensive driving, reducing distractions, and using extra caution in high-risk areas like Chapel Street or I-95 can help reduce crash risks.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Haven accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The experienced attorneys at Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP are here to help.
Call us today at 203-438-7450 for a free consultation or visit catherinev2.sg-host.com to learn more about protecting your case.