Hartford, Conn. — Recent legislation signed by Governor Ned Lamont introduces new safety mandates aimed at motorcycle riders, drivers, and young pedestrians in Connecticut. These laws will enhance existing regulations to improve roadway safety and protect vulnerable populations.
Under the new motorcycle helmet law, riders under 21 years old are now required to wear helmets, a shift from the previous requirement that applied only to those under 18. This measure, part of Senate Bill No. 1377, will take effect on October 1, 2025. The law specifies that individuals failing to comply will face a minimum fine of $90.
Howard Fuller, an instructor at the Connecticut Rider Education Program, shared his perspective on the change. Though he enjoys the freedom of riding without a helmet, he acknowledges a trend of younger riders who may not fully grasp the risks involved in operating motorcycles. “They seem less responsible and knowledgeable about the consequences,” Fuller remarked, highlighting evolving attitudes toward safety.
The new legislation also mandates that children 17 and under must wear protective headgear while riding bicycles, electric scooters, or skates on highways and parks. This provision aims to safeguard younger citizens as they participate in outdoor activities.
Additionally, the Connecticut Department of Transportation will develop a plan to expand speed safety cameras on state highways, as required by the new law. Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto must submit this plan to the General Assembly by February 1, 2026. The initiative aims to analyze the use of speed cameras beyond their current deployment in work zones, as several communities in the state already employ red light cameras.
Josh Morgan, a spokesperson for the transportation department, indicated that the upcoming study will explore the feasibility of using these cameras on highways. “This is something we are going to be studying to inform the legislature for discussion next session,” he noted.
Another critical piece of legislation, Substitute House Bill No. 7160, mandates that new drivers undergo a course related to Connecticut’s Slow Down and Move Over Law. Effective January 1, 2026, this course will be required for applicants who obtain a youth instruction permit. The curriculum aims to educate new drivers about the rules of the road and safety protocols in work zones.
Morgan pointed out that the recent legislative changes were influenced by tragic events involving state workers on the road. He highlighted the fatal incidents of Andrew DiDomenico, who died in a work zone accident, and Connecticut State Police trooper Aaron Pelletier, who was killed in a hit-and-run crash. These events underscored the urgency of enhancing safety measures for both drivers and workers.
Connecticut’s “Move Over” law, in effect since 2009 and strengthened in 2017, mandates that drivers reduce speed and, where safe, change lanes when approaching vehicles stopped on the shoulder. Morgan emphasized the importance of education in revising driver behavior, aligning these new measures with public safety goals.
Supporting the initiative, Tony Guerrera, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles, expressed enthusiasm for preparing new drivers to face real-world challenges. “Anytime we can improve safety, it’s a win-win for everyone,” Guerrera stated, reinforcing the commitment to reducing roadway risks.
This legislative package represents a concerted effort to address road safety in Connecticut, considering both the responsibilities of drivers and the vulnerabilities of pedestrians and younger riders.
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