DANVILLE – With Halloween only days away, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is urging drivers and adults to take extra precautions this year to keep everyone safe.

“While Halloween celebrations may be different this year, it’s still important to plan for a sober ride home, especially while children are trick-or-treating in the dark,” Bennett said. “If your Halloween festivities are going to involve alcohol, plan ahead.”

Illinois motor vehicle crash death rates are higher this year than last year. As of Oct. 23, 864 Illinoisans have lost their lives in vehicle accidents so far in 2020, according to information from the Illinois Department of Transportation. In an effort to keep motorists and pedestrians safe, law enforcement has increased its efforts to keep impaired drivers off the road.

“I want everyone in our community to have a fun Halloween night, but to also stay safe and make responsible choices,” Bennett said. “A few preventive measures can mean the difference between life and death this weekend.”

Bennett also wants to remind those celebrating to practice appropriate social distancing, keep gatherings to a minimum and never substitute a Halloween mask for a face covering intended to stop the spread of COVID-19. For more guidelines from the Illinois Department of Public Health, visit dph.illinois.gov/covid19.