New York State Police and local law enforcement will increase patrols through Halloween, targeting impaired and reckless drivers.
The enforcement period, which is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, runs through Friday, October 31.
“Halloween should be fun and safe for everyone, regardless of how you choose to celebrate,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.
“Unfortunately, poor choices behind the wheel can lead to deadly consequences. There is no excuse to drive impaired, drive distracted or speed. The New York State Police and our local law enforcement officers will be out and looking for anyone who makes the decision to jeopardize the safety of others this Halloween.”
During last year’s initiative, law enforcement officers issued 46,212 citations, arrested 1,260 drivers for impaired driving and ticketed 9,029 drivers for speeding.
Motorists can expect several sobriety checkpoints and additional DWI patrols during the enforcement period. In addition to targeting impaired drivers, law enforcement officers will also be looking for drivers that are distracted or 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. Studies show that pedestrian deaths increase by 43 per cent on Halloween compared to other nights.
