State Police and local law enforcement to crack down on impaired, reckless driving through Halloween

Halloween is approaching and the State Police will be partnering with local law enforcement agencies statewide to crack down on drunken and reckless drivers.

According to the Governor’s Office, Halloween is the deadliest day for child pedestrians under the age of 18. “Responsible choices are key to ensuring that all New Yorkers have a safe and fun Halloween,” Governor Kathy Hochul said.

The enforcement period began on Friday, Oct. 25, and runs through Thursday, Oct. 31, and is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

In addition to drunken and/or impaired drivers, Law enforcement will be targeting those who are reckless, such as speeding and disregarding pedestrian crossings.

During last year’s initiative, law enforcement officers issued 32,866 citations and 1,182 drivers were arrested for impaired driving and 6,495 drivers were ticketed for speeding.  

In 2022, 72 people died in traffic crashes during Halloween night, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Of those fatalities, 46 percent occurred in alcohol-related crashes.

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.

Generic Halloween image.