Each year, kids anticipate Halloween, the night they get to run around in costumes and demand candy from their neighbors. With sugar running through their veins and monsters roaming the streets, trick or treaters can forget about the real threats on this night. Halloween is the most dangerous day of the year for pedestrians, the majority of the victims being children. The influx of kids running around paired with cars on the road is a dangerous duo.
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, “twice as many kids are killed while walking on Halloween than on any other day of the year”. Drivers and pedestrians should stay alert and take caution. On Halloween, most kids are not thinking about the possibility of being hit by a car. Keep the following tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in mind to help prevent the night from ending in tragedy.
Keep Trick or Treaters Safe
- Children under the age of 12 should have adult supervision.
- Trick or treaters should stay in groups.
- Make sure you are visible to drivers. Incorporating reflective tape, flashlights, and glow sticks into costumes is a fun way to keep your children safe.
- Review the rules of the road with children. Make sure they know to look both ways before crossing the road, even if they have the right of way. They should use crosswalks when available or cross at street corners.
- Children should be cautious of cars when crossing driveways.
- Trick or treaters should walk on sidewalks if available. Alternatively, children can walk on the far side of the road, facing traffic.
Drive with Caution
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Do not use electronic devices while driving.
- Be aware that trick or treaters can unexpectedly run into streets. Drive slowly and stay alert.
- Clean your windshield, windows, and mirrors to ensure you have clear visibility.
No matter how cautious we are, anyone can be involved in a devastating accident. If you or a loved one has been injured, the attorneys of Greenberg Ramón-Alonso & Urbano can help you obtain the compensation you deserve. We only get paid if we recover money for you. Call (305) 595-2400 for a FREE consultation!
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