On October 31, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office – Lake Elsinore Station is urging residents in Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, and Canyon Lake to plan for a sober ride if they are celebrating Halloween. The department highlights the increased risks associated with driving under the influence (DUI) during Halloween festivities.
Deputy Hadeen emphasized the importance of responsible choices: “As families and children celebrate Halloween, it’s important for drivers to do their part in keeping our streets safe. If you plan on celebrating, make sure you have a plan to use a designated driver, public transit or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home. Driving impaired, even for a short distance, puts everyone at risk.”
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), adults aged 21 to 34 accounted for more than half of fatalities in drunk-driving crashes on Halloween night between 2019 and 2023. In 2023 alone, one person was killed every 42 minutes in a drunk-driving crash nationwide.
The sheriff’s office recommends that those participating in Halloween activities arrange transportation ahead of time and remain vigilant on the roads. Funding for distracted driving enforcement comes from a grant provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through NHTSA.
For further information about careers with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, individuals can visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
