New York State Police and local law enforcement are increasing patrols through Halloween, targeting impaired and reckless drivers.
State Police said drivers can expect several sobriety checkpoints and additional DWI patrols. In addition to targeting impaired drivers, law enforcement officers will also be looking for drivers that are distracted or speeding.
“Responsible choices are key to ensuring that all New Yorkers have a safe and fun Halloween,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.
“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.”
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.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports Halloween is a particularly deadly night due to the high number of impaired drivers on the roads and a significant increase in pedestrians. In 2022, 72 people died in traffic crashes during Halloween night. Of those fatalities, 46 per cent occurred in alcohol-related crashes.
Children out trick-or-treating, and those who accompany them, are also at increased risk. According to AAA Northeast, from 2007 to 2021 federal crash data shows Halloween is the deadliest day for child pedestrians under the age of 18. A total of 49 children across the country were killed on Halloween during that period, nearly double the next deadliest day.
