FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 23, 2024) – As Halloween approaches, Team Kentucky reminds all Kentuckians that “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.” Make sure your Halloween celebration plans include being safe, sober and watchful for pedestrians while behind the wheel.
Team Kentucky and the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety are partnering with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to remind motorists that driving under the influence of any substance puts you and others in danger.
According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety, last year in Kentucky, there were 4,324 highway crashes involving an impaired driver, resulting in 2,085 injuries and 181 deaths. Over the Halloween weekend, 53 alcohol-involved collisions resulted in one death and 34 injuries.
“You may feel like you’re fine, but consuming drugs or alcohol not only impairs your ability to drive, but it also clouds your judgment about whether you should even be on the road,” said KYTC Secretary Gray. “Impairment slows your reaction time, coordination, and decision-making – putting not only your life at risk but also the lives of everyone around you. Even a momentary lapse in judgment can lead to devastating consequences.” Secretary Gray urged drivers to be extra cautious of pedestrians during Halloween, whether it’s children out trick-or-treating or adults who are under the influence of a substance.
“Walking while intoxicated can be just as dangerous as driving impaired,” Gray said. “A lack of awareness of your surroundings puts pedestrians at serious risk of being struck by a vehicle.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers.
Follow these simple tips for a safe and happy evening:
For more information, visit nhtsa.gov/campaign/buzzed-driving.