October 25, 2019 – AAA urges Oklahomans gearing up for a big weekend of Halloween parties to keep safe driving top-of-mind. Drinking alcohol and getting behind the steering wheel puts lives at risk on our roads.

“Even one drink can be too many,” said Leslie Gamble, AAA Oklahoma spokesperson. “Having a game plan for getting home from a Halloween party is critical. Don’t wait until you’ve been drinking. By that point, your judgment is impaired.”

Peer pressure can often play a part in over indulgence in party atmospheres, according to Gamble. “With the adrenaline rush of emotional games and hilarious costumes, it’s easy for drivers of all ages to leave thoughts of safety behind. Unfortunately, we too often see the life-changing consequences.”

Last year, during the 12-hour Halloween holiday timeframe of 3 p.m. to 3 a.m., there were a total of 157 crashes in Oklahoma. Two resulted in serious injuries for two people. Eight were alcohol and/or drug-related. This means that more than 5% of the Halloween crashes on Oklahoma roads involved a potentially impaired driver. (Source: Oklahoma Highway Safety Office)

Pedestrian Risks & Tips:

Nationally, the number of pedestrian fatalities (adults and children) quadruples on Halloween, and the weekend before, has historically ranked among the days of the year with the most pedestrian deaths.

• Wear bright clothing and/or reflective accessories.
• Stay on sidewalks and cross the street at intersections – preferably, those with traffic signals.

Responsible Driving Tips:

• If you plan to drive – don’t drink; if you plan to drink – don’t drive!
• Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Don’t risk it.
• For motorists planning on attending football games and Halloween parties, AAA reminds you to drive only while drug and alcohol-free, or select a designated driver for the day, plan to take a ride share or cab or stay overnight with a friend.
• Seatbelts save lives. All drivers and passengers need to buckle up.

Party/Tailgate Hosts:

• If you’re hosting a gathering, be responsible, have non-alcoholic drink options, and don’t let an impaired partygoer get behind the wheel.
• Never ride as a passenger in a car driven by someone who has been drinking alcohol or doing drugs.

If you encounter an impaired driver on the road, keep a safe distance and ask a passenger to call 911 (or pull over to a safe location to make the call yourself). AAA works year-round to educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving in an effort to reduce traffic-related crashes and injuries.