As Halloween approaches, New York City residents are being urged to stay extra alert on the roads. With earlier sunsets, slick streets and rush-hour congestion creating a perfect storm for potential accidents, safety officials are stepping up efforts to protect both drivers and pedestrians.

“You definitely have to look both ways - twice,” said resident Besnick Shakri. “You definitely have to be aware of your surroundings more than usual.”

To address the seasonal spike in risk, city officials have launched their annual “Dusk and Darkness” Vision Zero initiative, aimed at reducing crashes and saving lives as daylight saving time comes to an end. “Remember that visibility changes quickly this time of year,” said NYPD Chief of Transportation Olufunmilola Obe. “Every safe choice you make helps protect your neighbors, your family, and yourself.”

While traffic accidents in Brooklyn are down 12% year-to-date, the increase in trick-or-treaters has many residents worried about children’s safety on Halloween night.

“Kids are running back and forth on the street trick or treating, and sometimes they're too small for the driver to even see,” said Roberto, a local resident.

To prevent tragedies, city officials are reminding drivers to inspect their vehicles before heading out.

“If your light is out, get it replaced,” advised Alec Slatky, director of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Northeast. “If your lights are foggy, get a headlight restoration kit. Make sure you have the most visibility on the road as a car, and that you see everyone on the road.”

For those looking to celebrate safely without traffic concerns, the Department of Transportation is hosting 148 car-free “Trick or Streets” events across the city this month, giving families a fun, secure place to enjoy Halloween festivities.

As the Halloween weekend begins, the Dusk and Darkness campaign is reminding all drivers to slow down, stick to 25 mph and stay alert behind the wheel.