Be responsible and remember Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving
Halloween is a much-loved fall tradition that is enjoyed by people of all ages. But irresponsible celebrating can quickly spoil all of the fun. That is why the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety and the Washington County Sheriff's Office is reminding everyone that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.
“With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, we want to remind revelers to be responsible by not taking the party to the roadways, putting themselves, trick-or-treaters and other motorists at risk,” said Lauren Stewart, Director, MeBHS.
Nation-wide, Halloween is a particularly deadly night due to drunk drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2008, 58 percent of all highway fatalities across the nation on Halloween night (6 pm Oct. 31 to 5:59 am Nov. 1) involved a driver or a motorcycle rider with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, which is illegal in every state. For more information, please visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.
“One foolish decision can turn a fun Halloween into a real-life horror story,” said Stewart. “There are simple precautions partygoers can take such as designating a sober driver in advance or taking a taxi.”
The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety and the Washington County Sheriff's Office also recommends these simple tips:
- Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;
- Before drinking, please designate a sober driver;
- If you’re impaired, and haven't designated a sober driver, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation where available so you are sure to get home safely;
- If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, call your local law enforcement immediately.
Another “scary” issue on Halloween is pedestrian safety. “Motorists should be aware that young children and adults will be out on Halloween night,” said Stewart “We hope that they will be wearing bright and reflective clothing and carrying a flashlight when walking in the dark. However, that may not always be the case.”
The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety and the Washington County Sheriff's Office recommends these tips for trick-or-treaters and all pedestrians:
- Wear bright colors or reflective clothing, and carry a flashlight;
- Always walk facing traffic;
- Stay on sidewalks and cross walks where available, and cross at intersections;
- Cross when it is clear. Keep looking for cars as you cross;
- Do not let kids play near traffic or cross the street by themselves. Kids are small, and drivers may not see them if they run into the street;
The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety and the Washington County Sheriff's Office hopes that this Halloween will be a safe one for everyone.
Sheriff Donnie Smith
Washington County Sheriff's Office
