Halloween is on a Saturday this year, so there will be more people out and about than usual. This means more trick-or-treaters and, unfortunately, more drunk drivers on the roadways.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Halloween remains one of the top three days of the year for pedestrian injuries and fatalities, and 48 percent of all car accident fatalities on Halloween night in 2012 involved drunk drivers.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind in order to prevent your Halloween festivities from turning truly scary:
For Trick-Or-Treaters:
- Only cross the street at designated crosswalks.
- Pay attention to traffic and not cellphones or other electronic devices.
- Make eye-contact with drivers before crossing.
- Wear reflective tape, carry a flashlight and wear light colored clothing so cars can see you.
- Children under 12 should always trick-or-treat with an adult.
- Don’t wear costumes that obstruct vision.
- Watch for cars that are turning or backing up and may not see you.
For Drivers:
- Drive slower than usual so you can watch for pedestrians.
- Remember that children may act unpredictable and may even run out into the street.
- Pay attention to the road and put away all distractions such as cellphones.
- Be especially alert during prime trick-or-treat hours, which are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- Drive defensively and on the lookout for impaired drivers.
- Always wear a seatbelt.
- Plan a sober ride home in advance, and NEVER drink and drive.
For Party Hosts:
- Do not over-serve your guests.
- Offer your guests a place to stay if they need it.
- Provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages for guests.
- Reserve cabs to take people home at the end of the party.
Whether you are taking the kids out trick-or-treating, staying home to watch a scary movie or going party-hopping, have a safe and happy Halloween. Should an accident occur, make sure to protect your rights by contacting an experienced attorney right away.
