• Halloween falling on a Friday creates a hazardous mix of increased foot traffic from trick-or-treaters and a higher likelihood of impaired driving from weekend parties.
• Half of all crash fatalities on Halloween night in 2023 were alcohol-related, highlighting the severe risk of driving impaired during the holiday.
• Children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than any other day, due largely to poor visibility and unpredictable crossing behavior.
• AAA urges pre-planning for a sober ride, advising drivers to designate a sober person and pedestrians/parents to ensure visibility and practice safe crossing habits

Halloween’s occurrence on a Friday this year presents heightened safety challenges for both pedestrians and drivers, prompting a strong warning from AAA. The combination of increased foot traffic from trick-or-treaters and a greater incidence of weekend social gatherings means a higher likelihood of impaired driving on the roads. In 2023, for example, half of all crash fatalities on Halloween night were confirmed to be alcohol-related, underlining the serious dangers of impaired driving.

Children face significantly elevated risks, as they are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Contributing factors include low-visibility costumes, distracted walking, and children’s often unpredictable street-crossing behaviors. AAA strongly encourages parents to prepare their children by reinforcing traffic safety rules, including using crosswalks, avoiding mid-block crossing, and increasing visibility through reflective gear or flashlights.

AAA’s continued “Crashes Hit Different” campaign serves as a crucial reminder to all drivers about the leading causes of fatal traffic crashes. The organization urges drivers to plan for a sober ride ahead of time, designating a sober driver or arranging alternatives like rideshares. Motorists are also advised to reduce speeds, focus fully on the road, and remain vigilant for trick-or-treaters emerging from between parked cars in residential areas. These straightforward safety measures are key to preventing tragic outcomes during the extended holiday weekend.