Cycling safety in Connecticut

Crash data

4 cyclist fatalities in 2024 .

In 2024, 4 bicyclists were killed in motor-vehicle crashes in Connecticut, about 1% of the state's 310 traffic deaths, according to IIHS Fatality Facts 2024 (which is built on NHTSA FARS data). A clean, single statewide cyclist-injury total for the latest year could not be confirmed from an official source, so injuries are left null.

Official reports & data:

Cycling rules in Connecticut

Helmets: Children 15 and under (i.e., under 16) must wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet on public roads (CGS 14-286d); there is no helmet requirement for adults on regular bikes. Separately, EVERY e-bike operator and passenger, of any age, must wear a helmet (see E-bikes). (source)
Passing distance: Drivers must pass a bicyclist on the left at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet. (source)
Vulnerable user law: Connecticut's Vulnerable User law lets a driver who causes the serious injury or death of a bicyclist, pedestrian, or other vulnerable road user through a moving violation be fined up to $1,000. (source)
E-bikes: Connecticut recognizes the 3-class system (Class 1 and 2 limited to 20 mph, Class 3 to 28 mph). Riders under 16 may not operate a Class 3 e-bike. Notably, CGS 14-289k requires helmets for ALL e-bike operators and passengers regardless of age. Class 3 e-bikes are barred from bike/multiuse trails. (source)
Lights & reflectors at night: At night or in low visibility, a bike must have a white front light visible from 500 feet, a red rear reflector or light visible from 600 feet, and reflective material visible from 600 feet on each side. (source)
Direction of travel / where to ride: Ride with the flow of traffic, as close to the right as practicable when moving slower than traffic; you may take the full lane at normal traffic speed or to avoid hazards. Riders may go no more than two abreast. (source)
Sidewalk riding: State law permits sidewalk riding but you must yield to pedestrians and give an audible signal when passing; local ordinances can restrict it, so check the town's rules. (source)

Cities and counties often add their own rules (for example, where you can ride on sidewalks or boardwalks). Check the local ordinance for the specific town you're visiting.

Resources

Bike-friendly destinations in Connecticut

Ride these with the rules above in mind:

In an emergency in the U.S., call 911. Read our general bike safety guide →