North Carolina’s annual “Booze It & Lose It” campaign has returned for Halloween, reminding people to plan a safe journey home and avoid driving after drinking alcohol or using other impairing substances. The campaign is led by the Governor’s Highway Safety Program with support from state and local partners.

From 26 October to 1 November, law enforcement officers across all 100 counties are increasing patrols and conducting sobriety checkpoints. The campaign combines enforcement with public education, encouraging people to choose a sober driver, use a taxi or rideshare service, or arrange another safe way home before celebrations begin.

Impaired driving remains a serious road safety concern in North Carolina. According to the state’s Department of Transportation, 387 alcohol-related deaths and 105 drug-related deaths occurred on its roads in 2025. During last year’s Halloween campaign, officers made 594 arrests for driving while impaired.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services points out that alcohol affects coordination, concentration and reaction time, all of which are needed for safe driving. It also warns against leaving the decision about how to get home until after drinking, when alcohol can affect judgement.

Find more from North Carolina Department of Transportation (USA, October 2026)