State police warn of ‘100 deadly days of summer’ after Memorial Day weekend – NBC Connecticut

So far, it’s been a relatively safe Memorial Day on the roads, with State Police reporting no traffic-related deaths this holiday weekend. But State Police warnings are appropriate as we enter what’s been dubbed the “100 deadly days of summer.”

It is a period between Memorial Day and Labor Day during which, according to police, the number of traffic accidents and deaths historically increases.

“Spent three nights in Rhode Island and drove back today,” said Matt Jovanis as he returned to New Jersey to finish out the holiday weekend.

“Coming here was fine until there was an accident in New Haven and a guy blocked traffic to film the drive-by. That wasn’t great,” he said.

State police report that so far there have been no fatalities in hundreds of accidents across the state.

“We are very, very thankful that there have been no fatal accidents so far,” said Daniel Hill of State Police Troop C in Tolland.

The state police say that these 100 days are notoriously dangerous for drivers.

“We are currently seeing an increase in accidents, including fatal accidents,” Hill said.

Hill added that alcohol and driving inattentiveness, along with increased traffic during the summer months, were two major factors in the increase in deaths.

“Unfortunately, the more traffic there is, the more accidents there are,” he said.

Drivers we spoke to along Interstate 95 heading home after the weekend said accidents are preventable, but caution must be exercised behind the wheel.

“Just drive well. There are a lot of reckless drivers out there, defensive driving is often the best way to get from point A to point B,” said Tim Karr.

Joyce Prizio of Glastonbury added: “I don’t drive too fast, I think that’s best. I stay in the middle lane or on the right.”

And while everyone we spoke to stressed the importance of staying focused when asked about safety, some prefer to be extra cautious during the busy months.

“Stay safe while I drive? Well, I’ll stay at home,” said Alexander Tsopanakis, laughing.

State police added their usual safety advice, including never driving under the influence of drugs and designating a driver in all situations. Also, avoid distracted driving and call 911 if you see an erratic driver on the road.