Trick-or-treating is an exciting time for kids, but it’s also a dangerous time. It’s natural for kids to be excited about going door to door in their costumes, and sometimes this means that they run when they should walk, or cross the street without looking. If drivers don’t take extra precautions or just aren’t paying attention, they set the stage for an unfortunate accident.
According to data from 1996, children are four times more likely to get hit by a car on Halloween than they are on other days of the year. So what can you do to make sure that children stay safe and keep the holiday fun?
For drivers
If you’re going to be driving on Halloween, make sure you slow down in residential neighborhoods. Keep a lookout for children who may be between cars, or on the curb. Don’t forget that children might be wearing dark costumes (think witches, Dracula, zombies), and may be less visible than they normally would. Even if it’s not yet dark out, it can help to turn on your headlights to make it more likely that children will see you before running out into the street. And as always, put down your phone. Distracted driving is always dangerous, but it can be especially so on Halloween when others may not be paying attention, either.
For parents
Re-emphasize with your children the importance of looking both ways before crossing the street. Accompany younger children during trick-or treating, and try to incorporate bright or reflective elements into their costumes.
Injured? Seek help.
Car accidents can happen at any time, but unfortunately Halloween is one of those days where the risk is heightened. If you or your child gets into an accident on Halloween, contact an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and seek the maximum compensation to help you move forward.
