BUFFALO, N.Y. — Halloween is the deadliest day for children under the age of 18, according to AAA.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Friday that State Police and other local law enforcement will be increasing patrols through Halloween to target impaired and reckless drivers.
The enforcement period, funded by the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, will begin on Friday, October 25 until Thursday, October 31.
During the next 7 days, drivers can expect several sobriety checkpoints and additional DWI patrols. Officers will also be looking for drivers that are distracted or speeding.
During last year’s initiative, law enforcement officers issued 32,866 citations, arrested 1,182 drivers for impaired driving, and ticketed 6,495 drivers for speeding.
“Responsible choices are key to ensuring that all New Yorkers have a safe and fun Halloween,” Governor Hochul said. “If you’re planning to celebrate, plan to have a sober ride home. I thank the New York State Police and our local law enforcement for keeping our children, communities and celebrations safe and fun.”
In 2022, 72 people died in traffic crashes during Halloween night, with 46% of those fatalities from alcohol-related crashes. From 2007 to 2021, federal crash data shows Halloween night is the deadliest day for children under the age of 18 with a total of 49 children across the country being killed.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the State Department of Health shared the following safety guidance for parents, caregivers and drivers to help avoid accidents and ensure a safe and happy Halloween.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
- Walk on a sidewalk if one is available and use crosswalks. In areas without sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
- Look left, right and left again and continue looking as you cross the street.
- Watch for cars backing up and never dart out between parked cars.
- Before the Halloween festivities begin, create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone. Stick to areas that are well lit and familiar.
- To be safest, join other families and walk together. Walking in groups always makes you more visible.
- In selecting costumes for children, make sure the child will be fully visible. Wear reflective clothing such as wristbands and shoes, carry a flashlight or glow sticks, or place reflective tape on costumes or trick-or-treat bags.
- Be sure that shoes, hats and costumes fit well. A costume that is too long can be a danger for tripping while walking. Hats and masks should not block vision.
- Do not use mobile phones or wear headphones. Always stay aware of your surroundings.
Safety Tips for Drivers
- Give yourself extra time to get to your destination. You may have to stop for trick-or-treaters, which may add to your travel time.
- Slow down and continuously scan the road in areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be or where visibility is limited. Slower speeds save lives.
- Stay alert for pedestrians who may emerge from between parked cars or behind shrubbery. Stop and wait for them to pass.
- Look for pedestrians, especially before turning at a green light and making a right turn on red.
- Pay attention! Don’t look at your phone when driving. Always keep your attention on the road.
- If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.
To learn more visit www.governor.ny.gov/news
