Overview
- Agencies are bracing for heavier and longer trick-or-treat activity because Halloween falls on a Friday, with targeted DUI patrols and extra traffic enforcement announced in several states.
- Federal and medical data underscore the risk, with NHTSA listing Halloween among the top days for pedestrian deaths and a JAMA analysis finding a 43% higher pedestrian fatality risk, especially for young children.
- Alcohol remains a major factor, with NHTSA reporting 198 alcohol-related crash deaths from 6 p.m. Oct. 31 to 5:59 a.m. Nov. 1 across 2019–2023 and urging pre-planned sober transportation.
- State updates highlight recent concerns, including Colorado’s reported 40% year-over-year increase in pedestrian crashes and Utah officials detailing special DUI enforcement for the holiday weekend.
- Safety guidance stresses visible, well-fitted, flame-resistant costumes; use of sidewalks and crosswalks with adult supervision for children; driver slowdown and distraction-free travel; candy inspection; and local sober-ride options such as Hampton Roads’ 757 Sober Ride with up to $15 in Lyft credit.