[John DiFederico is chief of New Canaan Police.]
New Canaan Police Chief John DiFederico
As the 2026–2027 school year begins, the New Canaan Police Department wants to ensure that every student, parent, pedestrian, and commuter travels safely across town. With increased morning and afternoon traffic around our schools, neighborhood roadways, and downtown streets, we ask all drivers, bicyclists, and e-bike riders to remain vigilant.
Officers will be conducting heightened traffic enforcement near all school zones, bus routes, and crosswalks to safeguard our students.
Key Traffic & Driving Guidelines
- Obey School Zone Speed Limits: Speed limits in active school zones drop significantly. Slow down and give yourself extra time during peak morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up hours.
- Stop for School Buses: Connecticut law requires drivers traveling in both directions to stop at a safe distance when a school bus displays flashing red lights and an extended stop arm. Never attempt to pass a stopped bus.
- Avoid Distracted Driving: Cell phone use while operating a vehicle is illegal and poses an exceptional risk near school buses, crosswalks, and drop-off lines. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
- Yield at Crosswalks: Watch for children crossing near school entrances, intersections, and neighborhood bus stops. Stop completely for pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
E-Bike Safety & Rider Responsibilities
With the growing popularity of electric bicycles among students, riders and parents must understand Connecticut e-bike laws and essential safety practices:
- Helmet Mandates: Connecticut law requires helmets for Class 3 e-bike riders and anyone under 16 years of age. The Department strongly recommends that all e-bike operators wear an approved helmet regardless of age.
- Follow Traffic Laws: E-bikes are legally considered vehicles on public roadways. Riders must obey all traffic signs, stop lights, lane directions, and yielding rules.
- Passenger Restrictions: Riding “double” on an e-bike is prohibited unless the bike is specifically designed and equipped with a dedicated passenger seat.
- Predictable & Visible Riding: Ride single file with the flow of traffic (never against it), use standard hand signals when turning, and equip bikes with a white front headlight and red rear reflector/light for low-visibility hours.
- Sidewalk Safety: Use designated bike lanes or roadways where available. If operating near pedestrians on sidewalks, reduce speed and yield right-of-way.
A Message to Parents
Please take a few minutes to review safe walking, riding, and driving routes with your children before the first day of school. If your child commutes on an e-bike, confirm their helmet fits properly, check that their lights and brakes function correctly, and reinforce that rules of the road apply to them at all times.
Thank you for your partnership in keeping New Canaan safe. Let’s work together to make this school year safe and successful for everyone.
For non-emergencies or traffic concerns, contact the New Canaan Police Department at (203) 594-3500. Always call 911 in an emergency.