The deadliest stretch of Interstate 95 lies between the Connecticut River and the Thames River, or more accurately through Old Lyme and East Lyme. And, after the horrific accident on Oct. 18 that left two dead, it’s time to review what occurred and how it could be corrected.

On that day, I-95 north was down to a single lane of traffic as utility crews were removing trees along the side of the highway in the vicinity of exit 73, Society Road. Traffic was backed up as far back as exit 71 and farther when a large dump truck pulling a trailer, unable to stop in time, slammed into a Ford Mustang.

In a very detailed article the next day in The Day, the recent work done to improve the highway in this area was reviewed. Yet state Department of Transportation officials still cite this section of highway as the biggest problem area in eastern Connecticut.

It seemed to me when these improvements were being addressed by highway crews, they were going to widen the highway to a third lane in each direction. When the new Society Road bridge was constructed, it was designed to allow the widening of the highway, but there is one other bridge that would require replacement before a third lane would be viable.

Ironically, the photo on page A4, showing the location of the accident the next day, pictures a car having to hard-brake before potentially colliding with the line of cars slowed down for the utility work again. The line of sight coming over the rise shows there was little time for this driver to react to the traffic in front of him.

So where should the blame be placed on this terrible day? Possibilities pointed to the tree work that slowed traffic, the dump truck’s potentially faulty brakes, even people violating speed laws and lack of speeding enforcement.

In January 2016, WFSB reported lawmakers were debating lower speed limits in this area following a double fatality earlier that month, but nothing changed. Since 2015, there have been eight accidents with at least one fatality between exits 70 and 76.

Here is my take on what needs to be done:

First, reduce the speed limit from 65 mph to 55 mph and beef up enforcement.

Increase state trooper presence at all road work requiring lane closures.

Place all lane-closure signage taking distance and line-of-sight issues into consideration.

What can you do? Obey the speed limit and formally request of your Local Traffic Authorities lower speeds on the dangerous sections of I-95.

Considering the number of accidents between exit 70 and 76 of I-95 averages around five a week, don’t you think it’s time to take action? Contact the LTA in Old Lyme and East Lyme. Contact the first selectmen in Old Lyme and East Lyme. With enough voices, we can make a difference.

Of course, the simplest solution is to drive at a safe and responsible speed for the road conditions. We are always in such a hurry to get somewhere. Take into consideration the safety of not only yourself but, just as important, the safety of fellow drivers on the road.

Safer, smarter driving saves lives.

Lee Edwards of Niantic has worked in the transportation industry for more than two decades. To comment, email leeaedwards@atlanticbb.net.