North Carolina to Launch Halloween DWI Enforcement Campaign
Statewide Booze It & Lose It patrols will run from October 26 through November 1 to deter impaired driving.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Substance Abuse
Live Poll
Do you support increased law enforcement patrols to deter impaired driving during holiday periods?
North Carolina law enforcement will increase patrols and checkpoints statewide starting October 26 as part of the annual Booze It & Lose It campaign. The initiative aims to reduce impaired driving incidents through November 1 by encouraging the use of sober drivers, rideshares, or taxis.
Why it matters
Impaired driving remains a leading cause of deadly crashes across North Carolina. The campaign seeks to curb this trend by utilizing heightened surveillance and enforcement measures throughout the Halloween period.
In 2025, North Carolina roads saw 387 alcohol-related deaths and 105 drug-related deaths. During the 2025 Halloween enforcement window, officers made 594 total DWI arrests across the state.
The players
North Carolina Law Enforcement
These state and local agencies are responsible for executing traffic safety initiatives and enforcing state driving regulations.
The details
Officers across all 100 counties will participate in the enforcement effort, which targets drivers operating vehicles while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Residents are strongly urged to designate a sober driver or utilize alternative transportation options to ensure public safety.
Timeline
The Booze It & Lose It campaign runs from October 26, 2026, through November 1, 2026.
In 2025, 387 alcohol-related and 105 drug-related deaths occurred on state roads.
Law enforcement recorded 594 DWI arrests during the October 2025 Halloween period.
Health Landscape
The Booze It & Lose It campaign represents a long-standing state strategy to address the ongoing public health crisis of impaired driving. It follows established patterns of seasonal enforcement, reflecting broader efforts to reduce traffic-related fatalities through proactive prevention.
Drivers should prepare for potential checkpoints and increased police presence on roads throughout the week. To avoid legal consequences and protect public safety, residents are advised to secure a designated driver or use rideshare services for all Halloween-related outings.
The takeaway
Avoiding impaired driving is a vital step in preventing the state's leading cause of fatal traffic accidents. Planning your transportation before heading out ensures a safer Halloween for all residents on the road.
Further reading
For more information on state safety programs, visit the Substance Abuse section.
Live Poll
Do you support increased law enforcement patrols to deter impaired driving during holiday periods?
