New York Cracks Down on Dangerous Driving Ahead of Halloween!
SARATOGA COUNTY, N.Y. (WRGB) – In a bid to enhance road safety during Halloween festivities, New York State Police and local law enforcement agencies have ramped up patrols to target impaired and reckless drivers, officials announced on Friday.
The enforcement initiative, which is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, began Friday and will continue through October 31.
Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the importance of responsible behavior during the Halloween season, urging New Yorkers to make safe choices. “Responsible choices are key to ensuring that all New Yorkers have a safe and fun Halloween,” Governor Hochul stated.
“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.”
As part of the enforcement period, drivers can expect increased sobriety checkpoints and additional DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) patrols.
Authorities also plan to stop other dangerous behaviors such as distracted driving and speeding.
In a similar initiative last year, law enforcement issued 32,866 citations across the state, with 1,182 arrests for impaired driving and 6,495 tickets for speeding, according to official reports.
Local departments, including the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, are actively participating in this year’s efforts.
Sheriff Michael Zurlo of Saratoga County highlighted the importance of planning, stating, “Making a plan for a sober driver or ride right now is not only simple but can save you and those around you from irreversible pain and suffering.
Halloween is a time to make memories and have fun, not plan a funeral or a homicide defense.”
Authorities are particularly concerned about Halloween due to the increased risks posed by impaired drivers and higher pedestrian activity.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Halloween night has historically been dangerous. In 2022, 72 people died in traffic crashes on Halloween, with nearly half of those fatalities involving alcohol-related incidents.
Children out trick-or-treating face elevated risks as well. AAA Northeast reports that from 2007 to 2021, federal crash data identified Halloween as the deadliest day for child pedestrians under 18.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James urged drivers to exercise extra caution during this period.
“Halloween is meant to be a fun day, but it can turn deadly when someone makes the wrong choice to drink and drive.
Drivers should exercise extreme caution and be mindful of extra pedestrian traffic as children and their parents will be out walking our streets,” he said. “Together, we can work to make our roads safer for all who travel and walk them.”
As Halloween approaches, authorities are reminding the public that careful planning, sober driving, and vigilance can prevent unnecessary tragedies, ensuring that the holiday remains safe and enjoyable for all.