With Halloween just days away, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is reminding everyone of the heightened risk of impaired during the holiday.

Halloween ranks among the deadliest nights for pedestrians — especially children. In 2022, 39 per cent of fatal car crashes on Halloween involved impaired drivers, according to the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Studies also show that pedestrian deaths increase by 43 per cent on Halloween compared to other nights. The risk is particularly high for children ages four to eight.

MADD is reminding parents, trick-or-treaters, and drivers to be vigilant of impaired driving. Neighborhoods are filled with children, teens, and adults in dark costumes at night, navigating areas with poor lighting, making it even more critical for everyone to stay safe and alert.

“Halloween should be about costumes and candy — not worrying about impaired drivers,” said MADD CEO Stacey D Stewart.

“With so many children and teens trick-or-treating, we want everyone to make safety a priority this Halloween. Impaired driving deaths and injuries are 100 per cent preventable. If you plan to drink, do not drive and make a plan to get home safe.”

MADD has urged families and drivers to follow these Halloween safety tips:

  • Plan Ahead and Never Drive Impaired: If you plan to drink on Halloween, make a plan and do not get behind the wheel of a car or any recreational vehicle, including bikes, golf carts, or ATVs.
  • Supervise Trick-or-Treaters and Dress for Success: Parents should accompany their younger trick-or-treaters and make sure they are highly visible.
  • If You Must Drive, Be Vigilant: Sober designated drivers should be extra alert on the roads, as more impaired drivers will be behind the wheel and pedestrians will be out at night trick-or-treating.
  • Talk to Your Kids About Underage Drinking and Impaired Driving: Parents should have open and honest conversations with their children before Halloween about the importance of making safe choices.
  • Report Impaired Drivers Immediately: If you see a suspected impaired driver, alert law enforcement right away.