Increased Patrols Now On Roads For Pedestrian Risk Holiday

According to a press release from the Governor's Office, Halloween is the deadliest day for pedestrians under the age of 18. As Halloween quickly approaches, across New York State you are likely to see increased state and local law enforcement on patrol in order to protect both trick or treaters and other drivers.

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Increased Law Enforcement Through Halloween

Ahead of this Friday's Halloween celebrations, Governor Hochul has urged New Yorkers to 'stay vigilant,' and of course not drive impaired.

Governor Hochul has announced that increased state police, as well as local law enforcement will be visible on New York roadways to 'combat impaired and reckless driving through Halloween.' This initiative began Saturday October 25th, and will run through the 31st. During lasts year's Halloween Enforcement Period, more than 46,000 citations were issued to New York drivers. These numbers are reflective of 1,260 arrests for impaired driving, as well as 9,029 speeding tickets.

The Governor's Traffic Safety Committee funds the yearly initiative, which puts increased police patrols on New York roadways to target impaired and reckless drivers during a time where many more people, especially children, can be found on the roads. In addition to sobriety checkpoints and DWI patrols, law enforcement will also be on the lookout for distracted driving and speeding.

 READ MORE: New Bus Shelters Installed in Wappinger

Celebrating With Safe and Fun Halloween Festivities

As we prepare to take out children out and about to Halloween events, or for trick-or-treating, reminding them of safety precautions, The Governor's Office is likewise, reminding drivers, to be extra cautious. Mark J.F. Schroeder, NYS DMV Commissioner and Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Chair reinforced this with the following:

We want everyone to be safe and enjoy Halloween festivities. If your celebration includes consuming alcohol

or drugs, plan to have a sober ride. Nothing will haunt you like a DWI. We all play a part in ensuring children and parents get home safely when they are out trick-or-treating. Look for pedestrians, lower your speed, put away the distractions and make sure everyone gets home safely.

The Governor's Office reminds drivers to have a plan, and in fact, about the 'Have A Plan' app which will directly connect NYers to taxi services and allow you to upload a designated driver list.