NEW YORK STATE - The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and New York State Department of Motor Vehicles reminds trick-or-treaters, drivers and those hosting social events of the increased risk for crashes, especially involving pedestrians and impaired drivers, on Halloween night and offered tips to help everyone stay safe on the road.

“Halloween offers great fun for kids of all ages, but unfortunately it also carries an increased risk of pedestrian crashes, especially those involving children and impaired drivers,” said DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder.  “Drivers should expect to encounter more pedestrians, particularly children, on the roads, and they should never, ever drive impaired. Children should be fully visible in their costumes. They should 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.” 

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, which analyzed 42 years of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), found the risk of pedestrian fatalities is 43 percent higher on Halloween compared to any other night. Also, according to the study, children between the ages of 4 and 8 are 10 times more likely to be hit by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other evening.

Safety tips for drivers and trick-or-treaters:

Be alert for trick-or-treaters and other pedestrians.

Slow down and scan the road. Remember: Slower speeds save lives.

Watch for young trick-or-treaters in unexpected places. Children may be unaware of traffic and dart into the street unexpectedly.

If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.

Before festivities begin, create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone.

Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.

If possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.

Studies have also shown an increase in fatal impaired-driving crashes on Halloween. In 2023, according to NHTSA, nearly half of all crash fatalities during Halloween night were alcohol-related.

Before drinking, choose a designated driver, or schedule a ride-sharing, ride-hailing or taxi service.

If you drink, do not drive for any reason. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving ability.

Be responsible and take action to make sure guests get home safely.

Prepare to call taxis, rideshares, provide sleeping accommodations, or, if you’re sober, drive guests home yourself.

Collect car keys from guests who are drinking.

Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.