Newton Police Department Reminds Drivers: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving This Halloween

As Halloween approaches, the Newton Police Department is partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remind all drivers that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. In 2022, someone was killed every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on our nation's roads.

From 2018 to 2022, Halloween night (6 PM on October 31 to 5:59 AM on November 1) saw 192 deaths in alcohol-related crashes. Of those, 171 involved drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Tragically, 31 pedestrians and 138 drivers and passengers were victims of those drunk-driving crashes.

A critical part of celebrating Halloween is planning to get to your destinations and back home safely. If you're drinking, make sure you have a designated sober driver or another safe way to get home. Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving, and if you feel any buzz, stay away from the driver's seat.

Plan ahead if you intend to drink, and don't wait until after drinking to figure out how to get home safely. Secure a designated sober driver, or use a taxi or rideshare service. If you find yourself unable to drive, give your keys to a sober driver. Look out for friends who may be impaired, and help them get a sober ride home. If you spot a drunk driver, contact the Newton Police Department.

Drive sober this Halloween, because Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.