JEFFERSON CITY - Halloween is a much-loved fall tradition that is enjoyed by people of all ages. But irresponsible celebrating can quickly spoil an evening and turn something fun into a real nightmare. The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds everyone to celebrate safely and that if "You Drink & Drive. You Lose."

"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 Leanna Depue, director of MoDOT's Highway Safety Division.

Halloween is a particularly deadly night due to impaired drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2008, 58 percent of all highway fatalities across the nation on Halloween night involved an impaired driver. In 2008 in Missouri, there were eight people killed and 51 seriously injured in traffic crashes during last year's Halloween weekend. Of the eight people killed, 50 percent involved an impaired driver and 57 percent were unbuckled.

To stay safe this Halloween, keep in mind the following tips:

·        Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.

·        Before drinking, designate a sober driver and give that person your keys.

·        If you're impaired, take a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.

·        If you suspect a drunk driver on the road, contact your local law enforcement.

·        Always buckle up. It's your best defense in a crash.

·        Slow down and stay alert!

Besides looking out for impaired drivers, all motorists need to be aware that on a night such as Halloween, children dressed in costumes can run out onto streets and roadways, and the damage could be staggering.

To avoid real-life Halloween horrors, remember the following:

·        Walk on sidewalks. If you must walk in the street, walk single file, face traffic and stay as close to the edge of the road as you can.

·        Make sure small children are with an adult when trick-or-treating.

·        Be seen at night. Wear reflective strips and carry a flashlight.

·        Don't assume a vehicle is going to stop for you - the driver may not be paying attention or see you.

·        Watch carefully for kids in the streets and stay close to your own little "monsters."     

For more information, visit http://www.savemolives.com/.

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