PENNSYLVANIA — State law enforcement agencies will watch for impaired drivers through Tuesday, October 31, with protecting pedestrians as a priority.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), in Pennsylvania over Halloween last year, there were a total of 376 crashes with four fatalities and 198 injuries. There were 11 crashes involving pedestrians. 

The Pennsylvania DUI Association and law enforcement across Pennsylvania remind all drivers and pedestrians to travel safely on Halloween, to obey speed limits, watch out for small children trick or treating, and never get behind the wheel while impaired on any substance. “Whether it’s alcoholic beverages, legally prescribed medication, over-the-counter medicine or illegal drugs, impairment is impairment,” the agencies said. 

Halloween presents unique challenges for law enforcement, due to the increased pedestrian traffic—trick-or-treaters as well as adult partygoers. 

Pedestrians need to be responsible for being safe as well.  Wear bright, reflective clothing; carry a flashlight or strobe light; only cross streets at designated crosswalks; obey traffic lights; and pay attention. 

These simple measures will help ensure that all those on foot return home safely. Even as a pedestrian, if you are impaired, your judgment and critical thinking are diminished.  

Equally concerning are crashes involving underage drinkers. PennDOT crash data shows an upward trend in crashes involving underage drinkers since 2019, according to the 2022 Pennsylvania Crash Facts and Statistics from PennDOT.

“Halloween is as much an adult holiday now as it is for children and teens looking to have fun,” said Leo Hegarty, executive director of the Pennsylvania DUI Association. “Adult Halloween gatherings often include alcoholic beverages as part of the festivities. Responsible adult consumption is fine if partygoers have a plan for a safe way home. Driving impaired could have dire and irreversible consequences.” 

So if you are hosting a party, “make sure your attendees have a safe plan ahead of time, take their keys, offer plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options,” he said.

The Pennsylvania DUI Association’s message is simple: don’t drive if you are impaired on any substance. Think before you celebrate this Halloween. It’s all about making smart choices, saving lives and preventing injuries. 

For more information on impaired driving, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety.