DPS NEWS

DPS and UDOT warns: the scariest part of Halloween is pedestrian crashes

For Immediate Release:

DPS and UDOT warns: the scariest part of Halloween is pedestrian crashes

Pedestrian fatalities are up, Fall/Winter sees an increase in pedestrian crashes

WHAT: Media are invited to Kuwahara’s Pumpkin Patch as the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) encourage increased pedestrian safety during the deadliest months of the year. Halloween is an exciting time for kids, teens and adults, however, everyone needs to be extra cautious while out and about. Media can expect an update on pedestrian crashes and fatalities, and tips for a pedestrian-safe Halloween.

Pedestrian fatalities are highest in the fall and winter months, with October being the deadliest. Statewide pedestrian fatalities have jumped 25 percent in seven years, an incredibly scary trend. And as the end of daylight saving time approaches and the nights get longer, the risks for pedestrian crashes increase. 

To address the rise in pedestrian fatalities, UDOT and DPS have partnered on a campaign that brings attention to and improves pedestrian safety through education in the form of mythical creatures. This campaign focuses on both pedestrian and driver responsibilities and can be viewed at Drivermyths.utah.gov and pedestrianmyths.utah.gov.  

WHEN: Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 9:30am 

WHERE: Kuwahara’s Pumpkin Patch and Thriller Park 12153 S 700 W, Draper, UT 84020

WHO: 

Utah Department of Transportation, Zero Fatalities
Department of Public Safety, Utah Highway Safety Office

VISUALS:

• Kids in costume, pumpkin patch, fall and halloween decor 
• Drivermyths.utah.gov and pedestrianmyths.utah.gov and campaign posters (digital versions found here)
• Digital press kit, including pedestrian safety videos

– ZERO FATALITIES – 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sgt. Cameron Roden
Utah Highway Patrol PIO
croden@utah.gov
385.290.2925

John Gleason
UDOT PIO
jgleason@utah.gov
801.560.7740