Keeping the roads safe on Halloween

Did you know 43% of people killed in car crashes on Halloween from 2009 to 2013 were in crashes involving a drunk driver? That’s according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The Salinas Police Department is reminding everyone to be extra careful this Halloween, especially since it’s on a Saturday.

“If you want to stay safe this Halloween, then make a plan to get home without driving if you’ve been drinking,” said Salinas Police Sergeant Gerry Ross. “Even one drink impairs judgment, so plan to get home by taxi, ride share, mass transit, or designate a sober drive. Buzzed driving is drunk driving, so think ahead to stay safe.”

The Avoid the 20 DUI Task Force in Monterey and San Benito Counties is sending out extra officers to patrol one of the deadliest nights of the year.

Whatever you do, don’t drink and drive. Police say designate a sober driver or call a cab.

A new mobile app launched last year can also help you find a safe driver. Called the “Designated Driver VIP,” it’s free to download.

Here are some more tips from the Salinas Police Department:

• Plan a safe way to get home before you attend the party. Alcohol impairs judgment, as well as reaction time. If you’re drunk you’re more like to choose to drive drunk.

• Designate a sober driver; take public transportation, a car service, or a call a sober friend of family member to get home.

• Walking while impaired can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Designate a sober friend to walk you home.

• Report Drunk Drivers – Call 911.

• If you see someone you think is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them get home safely.