What to See in a Quick Road Trip to Connecticut

If you're planning a road trip to the Northeast, Connecticut may just be the hidden gem you've been waiting to discover. What does Connecticut have to offer in a weekend or longer? We wish you happy mapping and then exploring!

New Haven

On the southern coast, and right on the main thoroughfare of I-95, sits New Haven, the home of Yale University. Students come from all over the world to study here, making it a melting pot of languages, foods, and attractions. If you love history and books, you'll want to visit the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, which holds one of the largest collections in the world, complete with a Gutenberg Bible. Yale itself, built in 1701, is worth the trip for history fans, having its own story to tell and beautiful architecture. Also exciting to visit is the Peabody Museum of Natural History, which houses the Great Hall of Dinosaurs, including a skeleton of a Brontosaurus. New Haven is also popular for its parks with ocean views, art galleries, theaters, concert venues, food trucks, and restaurants. Sushi Palace in North Haven is a hot spot for all-you-can-eat sushi. For pizza lovers, Frank Pepe's, Modern Apizza, and Sally's, all iconic, are just three of the pizza joints loved by locals and tourists alike. Why not try one or more pizza joints during your stay! 

The Coast

As you leave New Haven and travel East, clustered also on (or near) the southeastern shore, you will find Essex, East Haddam, and Mystic. Essex offers rides on a steam train and/or riverboat. From the riverboat you can enjoy scenic Gillette Castle, a medieval, gothic-style castle. To reach the castle on foot, you can hike one of the many trails in Gillette Castle State Park (to see inside, make sure tours are available when you go). About 15 mins from Essex, you can catch a show at the musical theater, Goodspeed Opera House, in East Haddam. The Victorian-style building, surrounded by trees and a swing bridge on the Connecticut River, makes you feel as if you've stepped into a different era. You may also be eager to visit the Mystic Aquarium. Listed amongst the top 5 largest aquariums in the USA, Mystic Aquarium is home to the only Beluga whale habitat in New England and to thousands of species of marine mammals.  While visiting this beautiful part of Connecticut, don't miss out on trying any of the excellent seafood stops you can find along the coast.

Litchfield Hills

What about spots away from the ocean? The northwestern Litchfield Hills are also an attractive way to spend a weekend get-away.  Here you'll find vast landscapes filled with state parks, historic gardens, waterfalls, and vineyards. You will be able to capture the scenery of covered bridges and colonial architecture. With minimal light pollution, you can feel immersed in the night sky as you stargaze. A special mention goes to the Cathedral Pines Preserve, a national natural landmark, where you can see white pines looming at 120–140 feet. If you are feeling extra adventurous, you can also hike the 5.4-mile trail through the pines to Mohawk Mountain.  Along with hiking, wine tasting, and exploring, many are drawn to antique shopping and staying at the historical inns. The Connecticut Restaurant Association named Arethusa al tavolo Restaurant as the best restaurant in Connecticut, so make sure to make a reservation in your travels. Don't forget to also stop at Arethusa Farm for the ice cream voted best in Connecticut! 

Bonus Content

If you have a little more time, and the seaon is right, here are some possible additional adventures.

Spring: Fruit picking (until mid-fall), Cherry Blossom Festival and restaurant week in New Haven, hot air balloon rides, and a daffodil farm in Litchfield

Summer: Visiting/camping at Hammonasset Beach State Park, food truck festivals, outdoor concerts

Fall: Foliage road trips, county fairs, corn mazes, wine trails

Winter: Mohawk Mountain Ski Area in Litchfield, wildlife eagle cruise in Essex

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state! 

How to Minimize the Risk of Vehicle Theft

Did you know that social media has contributed to a huge jump in car theft, especially of certain car models? However, even if you own one of the most commonly stolen car models, such as a Honda, Hyundai, or Kia, you don’t have to become a victim of vehicle theft. What steps can you take to minimize the risk having your car stolen?

Habits

The most obvious solution is to remember to always lock your doors and activate the car’s security system, if it has one. But there are other steps you can take that don’t cost anything. First, do your best to park in a well lit area. That may deter thieves from attempting to steal your vehicle. Also, make sure to remove any valuables such as tablets, laptops, or tools that may be added temptation for a car thief. You may also decide to keep your car keys with you at all times, even in places like the gym where there may be options to hang them up while you’re there.

Devices

There are also devices you can buy to add another layer of security to your vehicle. One cost-effective option is a wheel or brake lock. These devices are bars that either run across just the steering wheel, or from the bottom part of the wheel to the brake. Their purpose is to secure part of the vehicle in place—either the steering wheel or both the wheel and brake—making vehicle movement virtually impossible. Once secure, the wheel or brake lock can only be removed with a key that you keep with you. Another handy device is a kill switch, which is a hidden device that prevents a vehicle from starting by interrupting the electrical or fuel system. Only those who know where the switch is can start the car by first "flipping the switch," before starting the car in the normal fashion. It is recommended to get this switch installed professionally, but if you have some knowledge of your car's electronics, you may be able to install it yourself and save some money.

"Oh no! It's gone!"

What if, despite all your efforts, your vehicle is still stolen? One other device you can install is a hidden GPS tracker. Then, even if the thief is able to bypass all your precautions, this would allow you to track your vehicle and hopefully recover it.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!  

1. Check your oil. Winter-grade oil will not thicken in colder temperatures, taking a toll on the engine. Look for a multi-viscosity oil with a “W” in the index, such as 0W-20, 5W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-30. This will keep your engine and car running smoothly through the colder months. 
2. Check your battery. Batteries get drained in cold temperatures. Keeping your battery at a good charge will help your car start and run at optimum power. 
3. Check your coolant. A 50/50 antifreeze/water mixture will keep your engine from seizing up. In colder climates, you can even use a 60/40 or 70/30 ratio (in favor of antifreeze) to keep your engine running smoothly.
4. Check your tires. Tire pressure and tire tread are both essential to keeping you safe on the road, especially if it’s slick. Look to your owner’s manual or for a sticker on the driver’s side door for your vehicle's proper tire pressure level. Do your best to keep it at that level, as tire pressure decreases more quickly during winter months. Whether you choose all-season tires or switch to winter tires, make sure your tires have less than 4/32 wear in the tread to be able to stop safely. Having a set of chains in the car may also be beneficial for emergency situations. 
5. Check your headlights. Snow, dirt, and grime in your headlights can make it harder for you to see the road ahead of you. Most auto stores sell headlight restoration kits. 
6. Check your brakes. Snow, moisture, and salt leads to rust. Rust in the brake pads or rotors lead to dangerous conditions where you may not be able to brake in time. Be alert to sticking brakes and strange noises from your brakes. When driving, also avoid risk by braking early and gently rather than slamming on the brakes, which can cause you to skid.
7. Check your windshield. Add a hydrophobic repellant to your windshield to make scraping easier. Make sure the windshield is clean and dry before applying. Never add hot water to a freezing windshield as that can cause it to crack. 
8. Check your emergency kit. A winter weather emergency kit will include the following: a bag of abrasive material or traction mats in case you get stuck, an ice scraper with a brush, jumper cables, enough gloves, hats, and blankets for everyone in your car, a first-aid kit, a snow shovel, a flashlight with extra batteries, window washer solvent, cloth or paper towels, warning devices such as flares or triangles, drinking water, non-perishable snacks, extra clothes, and a basic toolkit with screwdrivers, pliers, and an adjustable wrench. Also keep an extra charger for your cell phone so you can reach out for help from friends, families, or an automobile assistance program.

Discernment is Vital to Drive Safely

Most dictionaries define the word “discernment” as a quality that assists an individual to comprehend something.  There is an obvious connection between safe driving habits and discernment.  The level of discernment one possesses may vary based on how someone processes information and by how they choose to react and apply what they learn.  As we consider a few examples, pay close attention to the situation being described and use them to evaluate or even “grade” your personal driving behavior based on what you discern and how it may affect your decisions.

Situation 1. Most people have busy schedules and juggle many different responsibilities and obligations.  If you regularly find yourself running late or begin to feel strong emotions such as anger or frustration while driving, how may you choose to respond?

Response 1. Driving aggressively or faster than the speed limit may reduce the time needed for travel.  Will this increase driving risk for yourself and others?

Response 2. Changing the time allotted for travel time budgeting additional time to travel and allotting time for unexpected delays.  Will this reduce driving risks and perhaps help to avoid becoming aggressive or frustrated while driving?

Situation 2. Inclement weather is affecting driving conditions and visibility.  Heavy rain is making the roadway reduce the quality of tire traction and stopping distance.  The rain is also making it more difficult to see the roadway lines or to clearly see pedestrians or cyclists.

Response 1. The speed limit signs do not state a speed limit when it is raining.  I can drive legally at the speed limit.

Response 2. Deciding to slow enough to allow proper time to stop proportionate to visibility, reaction time, and braking ability will reduce the risk of striking anything that appears suddenly.  Paying closer attention to the road will reduce the likelihood that other internal or external factors will affect driving safely.  Having the discernment to allow additional time for any drive also helps to prevent our view of time adding to the factors that influence driving behavior.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Help Drivers by Being a Safe Pedestrian

The World Health Organization, (WHO) reports that over 1.3 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes. More than half of these deaths come from people who are NOT in the vehicle. This means that, regardless of the cause of the crash, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are at a significantly higher risk of death or injury.

Let's focus on being a safe pedestrian. A pedestrian cannot control the decisions of a driver, however intentional choices by the pedestrian can reduce their risks while walking along a roadway.

1. Walk facing traffic. Walking safely while facing the direction of traffic in the lane closest to you provides an extra layer of protection. Being able to see potential dangers allows you a few extra moments to react in a way to protect yourself. If your back is to the traffic, you may not know what is approaching you until it is too late.

2. Wear clothing that is more eye-catching, especially at night. If you have high visibility safety gear while walking or jogging along a road, drivers will more likely see you and give you the necessary safe space.  Having reflective gear particularly at night will draw the light from the headlights to more effectively alert drivers of your presence.  

3. Be alert! Many today walk or exercise while listening to music. Others are virtually attached to their devices and are not paying attention to their surroundings. Make sure you can hear what is going on around you by only listening to music at a moderate level. Look up! If you are walking while using your handheld device, be cautious. Keep your eyes on what is in front of you and periodically look around to be aware of what other dangers you may approach.

While this is not an exhaustive list of safety reminders, we at NHSA believe proper safety education is a key factor in driving safely.  Please check out our driver education courses and take advantage of the benefits that come along with safe driving, and in this case, safe walking!

Understanding the Consequences of Drinking and Driving 

Many individuals enjoy going out to dinner and perhaps have one or two alcoholic beverages and think nothing of it. Most of the time such actions when done responsibly don’t cause any severe consequences. There is an increased risk associated with such behavior when someone fails to consider factors that will affect their safety and the safety of others.

The effects that alcohol can have on a person can vary by the person and the situation. The body can process alcohol and may feel its effects in a consistent way on most occasions. This may move an individual to assume that their “limit” is clear and thus they are not at risk to drive safely. However, studies have shown that multiple circumstances can contribute to your body processing alcohol differently or even becoming affected by alcohol faster than other times. You may not be able to realize that you are more affected by alcohol than you may think. See details of a recent study HERE.

Reflecting on any situation that can potentially put you and others at risk will help you to make decisions based on sound reasoning. Failing to do so, regardless of the situation, can lead to mistaken overconfidence and a lack of awareness of important information.  For example, take a moment to see the various penalties associated with drinking and driving in Florida HERE.

The CDC reports that each year drinking and driving leads to over $100 billion dollars in costs from damages and lives lost. While financial costs can be significant, it is difficult to place a price on the suffering a family must endure from the needless loss of a loved one, nor can the guilt felt by the individual responsible may feel for the rest of their life. It is clear that driving after drinking alcohol can have severe consequences, thus modesty is essential. The best protection is to designate a driver who does not plan to consume alcohol. Having a designated driver may not be required by law, but it is the only way to ensure that alcohol will not affect the drive home.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

Safe Driving Habits Will Save You Money

There are many factors that can cause risks associated with driving a vehicle. Some have to do with the vehicle itself, the road conditions, or even other drivers. The most significant factor of risk associated with driving is the driver himself. Unsafe driving habits such as speeding, being aggressive behind the wheel, or even becoming distracted or impaired are among the top contributing factors in a vehicle crash.

Let’s simply focus on speed, and particularly how proper and safe speeds will save you money. The most direct reason proper speed will save you money is that vehicles are designed to operate at designated speeds for optimal and most efficient performance. For most vehicles, that speed is approximately 55 miles per hour. Driving over the speed limit will cause the vehicle to burn fuel less efficiently. Long story short, you get better gas mileage, thus safe driving habits will save you money.

Another factor regarding driving at the proper speed is that it will affect the costs of vehicle repairs as well as the value and lifespan of the vehicle. Driving aggressively and speeding will affect the wear and tear of items such as tires, brakes, and even potentially other parts of the vehicle. See an article that shows how dramatically your speed affects the life of your brake pads and how often you need to replace them HERE. Safe driving habits save you money!

Another fairly obvious reason that safe driving habits save you money is the significant correlation between your driving habits and your car insurance premiums. Over a period of time, an insurance company is basically assessing you and the risks they feel are appropriate based on your driving record. Let’s call this your “driving reputation.” Your reputation can be affected by one action, and all the more so if it is a significant action with significant consequences. Therefore, if your “driving reputation” shows a pattern of speeding it will affect your insurance. It is logical that you will have to pay more money for your insurance premium until enough time has passed and you have regained a safer “driving reputation.” We conclude our point with…safe driving habits will save you money!!!

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

It is important to be aware of those who are much more vulnerable to a vehicle crash, namely pedestrians and cyclists and others who are considered VULNERABLE ROAD USERS.

1. Drive with extra caution in town! If you hit a pedestrian at 20 mph, they will probably live. However, the survival rate for a pedestrian hit by a vehicle dramatically decreases with increased speed. At 30 mph, a pedestrian will have a 1 in 5 chance of living. By the time you reach 40mph, their chance of survival is nearly zero. These statistics help to show why the posted speed limits are so low near school zones and residential neighborhoods.

2. Be prepared on rural roads. These roads should never be used as an excuse to speed, just because there are fewer cars on the roadways. Often rural roads have multiple uses. Cyclists and residents use these roads for their daily activities and may be difficult to spot. For that reason, pay close attention to the posted speed limit, perhaps even driving below the speed limit depending on the circumstances. Slowing down when approaching more populated areas, or when visibility is limited, can lower the risks of an incident considerably.

3. Watch out when maneuvering. Many vulnerable roadway users are injured because a driver did not see them. Before turning, you should carefully check your mirrors and blind spots. Double-check for cyclists and motorcycles before changing lanes, to make sure one has not suddenly appeared. If you must reverse, make sure to do so slowly while keeping a good eye on your mirrors. It is especially vital to double-check all planned vehicle movements at night or when visibility is limited due to weather conditions.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers. Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!

What Factors Can Help Determine a Safe Following Distance?

Some drivers may feel that if you are staying alert, scanning the road for hazards, and driving at the posted speed limit that it doesn’t matter how closely you drive behind another vehicle. Every time you drive, you must pay attention to how much space you are leaving in front of and beside your vehicle. If you make a habit of following other vehicles too closely, you may not be able to avoid an accident if the driver in front of you hits their brakes suddenly. To determine how much space is needed, you must consider the following factors.

Weather

Is snow or rain causing the road to be slick? Is your visibility limited by rain or fog? Keep alert to changing weather conditions that could slowly affect safe driving conditions.

Time of day

Are you traveling in a direction that leaves you with the sun glaring in your eyes? Or, if it is dark outside, do the headlights of oncoming vehicles make it difficult for you to see? Animals can be difficult to spot at night or on narrow country roads, especially at dusk. 

Traffic conditions

Is traffic heavy? Is there anything in the road ahead that could cause the vehicle in front of you to stop abruptly? Is there merging traffic that will bring more vehicles into your path? Good driving habits involve constantly scanning your surroundings and keeping an eye for safe paths if something requires you to react suddenly to avoid objects, animals or even pedestrians or other motorists.

While this is not an exhaustive list of factors that can affect how you determine a safe following distance, it can help to be mindful of ever-changing driving situations that must be considered.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!