No Tricks, Just Safety: CTDOT Highlights Halloween Pedestrian Safety

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is reminding motorists and pedestrians to take extra precautions during Halloween weekend to help prevent crashes and keep everyone safe. With children and families out trick-or-treating on Halloween, drivers should be especially alert in residential neighborhoods, near intersections, and at crosswalks.

Daylight Saving Time also ends overnight Saturday, with clocks falling back on Sunday, November 1, bringing earlier sunsets and reduced visibility during evening commutes in the days ahead.

Preliminary data shows that 1,314 crashes involving pedestrians occurred on Connecticut's roads in 2025, resulting in 67 pedestrian fatalities. Through September 30, 2026, preliminary data recorded 725 crashes involving pedestrians statewide, resulting in 31 pedestrian fatalities.

CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto joined Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli, state and local law enforcement, and safety advocates today in Farmington to urge precaution so people of all ages stay safe and enjoy the Halloween weekend.

"I hope that residents and families across Connecticut have the best Halloween. While there is so much to look forward to, we must also be reminded that it can be one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians, especially children," said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. "If we watch out for each other, we can prevent injuries, save lives, and ensure that Halloween remains a safe and joyful evening for everyone."

"Halloween is an exciting time for families, but it's also a time when drivers need to be especially vigilant. Slow down, watch for people crossing the street, and put distractions away," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. "As daylight hours decrease, staying alert and looking out for pedestrians becomes even more important. Every driver has a role to play in keeping Connecticut's roads safe."

"With Halloween on a Saturday night this year, we can expect that our roads, neighborhoods, and bars will be busy with celebrations," said Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli. "If you plan to go to a bar or restaurant on Halloween night, make sure to prearrange a sober and safe ride. Although the clocks fall back early Sunday morning, bargoers do not get a 'bonus hour.' We know Halloween is a fun night, but we would all like to keep it that way. Just call the ride, get home safe, and enjoy the extra hour of sleep."

"We urge everyone to use extra caution on Halloween, when children may be crossing streets between parked cars or in areas where drivers may not expect them," said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. "Drivers should slow down, stay alert and never drive impaired. Parents and caregivers should also remind children to use designated crosswalks when available and remain aware of their surroundings."

"As Halloween approaches, we encourage everyone to do their part to keep our communities safe," said Watertown Police Chief Joshua Bernegger, chair of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association's Traffic Safety Committee. "Drivers should remain alert for pedestrians, especially children, and pedestrians should take steps to be visible and cross streets safely. Looking out for one another can help prevent crashes and ensure families enjoy a safe Halloween."

CTDOT offers the following tips to help drivers protect pedestrians this Halloween weekend and throughout the fall:

• Watch for trick-or-treaters: Drive slowly through residential neighborhoods and look carefully for children crossing the street.
• Slow down near crosswalks: Be prepared to stop for pedestrians, including when turning at intersections.
• Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk: A pedestrian may be crossing where you cannot see them.
• Put distractions away: Keep your eyes on the road and your hands off your phone.
• Use caution after dark: Be extra careful at night or during bad weather.
• Yield to pedestrians: Stop at crosswalks and maintain a safe distance, allowing other drivers to see and stop for pedestrians as well.
• Check before backing up: Look carefully for pedestrians behind your vehicle before reversing.
• Obey speed limits: Follow posted speed limits, especially in school zones and residential areas where children may be present.
• Never drive impaired: Make a plan for a sober ride, whether that's a designated driver or a taxi, public transportation, or rideshare service.

For more safety information and tips for parents, caregivers and children, visit NHTSA's Pedestrian Safety webpage.