Halloween is one of those nights where people let loose. Think of all the costume parties, haunted houses, late-night celebrations and spooky fun that take place. But behind the ghost masks and jack-o’-lanterns lurk darker statistics. Sadly, they can turn a night of thrills into tragedy when people drive impaired.
Impaired driving on Halloween has been a long-time problem.
According to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), in 2021, there were 640 crashes resulting in 240 injuries on Halloween in B.C. CBC reports that “compared to an average day, crashes spike by 25 percent on Halloween, with 330 people injured in 920 crashes across B.C., according to ICBC data from 2011 to 2015.”
On Halloween night, 38 percent of fatal accidents had participants with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or more, reports Jason Klimkowski of Mental Health Providers. “Alarmingly, drunk drivers accounted for 23% of pedestrian fatalities on this particular evening,” he writes, “Over a 5-year period: Data from 2015 to 2019 indicates that 41% of those who lost their lives in traffic incidents on Halloween night were involved with at least one intoxicated driver.”
Impairment comes in many forms.
Yes, alcohol is still the most common cause of impairment. Statistics Canada reports that “drinking and driving remains the leading cause of impaired driving in Canada, accounting for over 10 times as many impaired driving incidents causing bodily harm in 2023 as incidents only involving drugs.”
However, it’s important to highlight the fact that cannabis use can also make it dangerous for you to get behind the wheel. According to HeretoHelp BC, driving after using cannabis is relatively common in Canada. They report that 15 percent of cannabis users with a driver’s license reported driving within two hours of use at least once in the last year. “Two recent studies in BC revealed that around 8% of drivers who sustained injuries in car crashed tested positive for cannabis, among other substances,” their website reveals.
What makes cannabis use and driving so dangerous? “Cannabis contains THC (the short name for the mind-altering chemical in cannabis),” explains HeretoHelp, “THC can impair our ability to drive. When THC is in our blood, it may affect our tracking ability, reaction time, sight, concentration and memory. THC can also compromise our ability to handle unexpected events, such as a child stepping out onto the street.”
What steps can you take to ensure a safe and fun Halloween?
Firstly, watch for pedestrians. Many children and costumed adults may step off curbs unexpectedly. Secondly, don’t mix substances. If you plan to consume cannabis or alcohol, your driving capability will drop. Be sure to plan your ride in advance. You should know how you’ll get home before the party begins. You should also avoid driving during peak trick-or-treat hours, when foot traffic is high.
Designate a sober driver with MyDDride! We will drive you home in your own vehicle, with a chase car following. We believe no one should ever feel forced to drive when they’re not fully sober. We’re ready to step in, whisk you home in your own car and let you rest easy. If you’re planning a Halloween party or night out, book your safe ride ahead of time.
Your safety is our priority. Call or text MyDDride at 604-283-8532 or visit our Contact page to schedule your designated driver for Halloween today!