Fall in Connecticut Is Beautiful—But It Can Also Be Dangerous
Every year, drivers from all over the Northeast head to Connecticut’s back roads and scenic routes to take in the changing leaves. It’s a favorite tradition for locals and tourists alike but it also brings a spike in accidents caused by distracted driving, traffic backups, and unfamiliar roads.
Whether you were enjoying a foliage drive in Litchfield County or winding through Route 169 in Windham County, an unexpected crash can turn a scenic trip into a serious legal and medical ordeal.
Why Do Foliage Drives Cause So Many Accidents?
Here are the most common reasons fall driving becomes hazardous in Connecticut:
Distracted Driving: Taking photos, admiring the view, or pointing out scenery can pull attention away from the road—even for a second.
Sudden Stops: Drivers often slam on the brakes or pull over abruptly to snap a photo or park near an overlook.
Out-of-Towners: Foliage season brings in drivers unfamiliar with local roads, rules, or traffic patterns.
Increased Traffic: Popular foliage routes become congested, and impatient or aggressive drivers are more likely to make risky moves.
Early Darkness: Daylight fades earlier in the fall, and sunset glare or limited visibility can increase the risk of collisions.
What to Do After a Foliage-Related Car Accident
If you’re injured in a car accident during peak foliage season in Connecticut, take the following steps to protect yourself:
Call 911 and seek medical help immediately.
Document the scene: Take photos of the cars, road conditions, signage, and surroundings.
Get witness information if possible—especially if other drivers or pedestrians saw what happened.
Avoid admitting fault, even casually. Save your version of events for law enforcement and your attorney.
Call an experienced personal injury lawyer—especially if your injuries are serious, or fault is disputed.
Who’s Liable in a Leaf-Peeping Crash?
Liability for these types of accidents can vary based on the circumstances:
If a driver rear-ends you while you're stopped in traffic, they may be at fault for following too closely or not paying attention.
If a driver pulls over unsafely or merges without signaling, they may be liable for any resulting crash.
If multiple cars are involved in a chain-reaction collision, liability may be shared and you’ll need an attorney to help determine how to proceed.
Connecticut is an at-fault state, which means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for damages. But insurance companies don’t always agree on who that is. That’s why legal guidance is key.
Injured in a Foliage Crash? Sousa Law Can Help
Whether you’re a Connecticut resident or an out-of-state visitor, getting injured in a car accident during foliage season can leave you with medical bills, missed work, and a lot of questions.
At Sousa Law, we’re here to help you:
Understand your rights
Navigate the insurance process
Pursue full compensation for your injuries
You don’t have to face it alone. Let our team advocate for you so you can focus on healing.
Call us at 203-929-8283 or contact us to get started.