Google Screened
mobile

What are Halloween Driving Safety Tips?

October 21, 2021

halloween driving safety

Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for car accidents. The increase in foot traffic in neighborhoods filled with excitable little ones, the distraction of masked and preoccupied children on the hunt for treats, and the descending of darkness over the entire scene makes this spooky holiday a scary sight for drivers who want to avoid accidents. Research from AAA shows that children are four times more likely to be hit by a car on Halloween night than at any other time of the year.

Therefore, what can be done to avoid these preventable accidents?

Everyone plays a role in preventing car accidents on Halloween. Below are some tips for drivers and for pedestrians to stay safe.

Tips for Drivers on Halloween

Motorists must be especially careful while driving on Halloween. Here are some tips to drive safely:

  • Be alert. Although drivers should always be aware of their surroundings, the increased pedestrian activity on Halloween calls for drivers to be extra vigilant. Avoid becoming distracted by mobile devices, GPS systems, or anything else. Keep your eyes on the road.
  • Obey the rules. Follow posted speed limits and obey all other traffic laws. This allows other drivers and pedestrians to anticipate your actions and to respond with their own safety-conscious decisions.
  • Drive slowly and cautiously in neighborhoods. Take the extra time to be safe. Reducing your speed can make a big difference if you need to stop suddenly if, for example, a child darts out onto the street without warning.
  • Do not drink and drive. Another bit of Halloween driving advice that should be put into practice at all times, refraining from driving under the influence is a particularly relevant recommendation on a night with so many other potential driving dangers. Do not get behind the wheel after having too much to drink at a Halloween party.
  • Drive a safe car. The car you drive can have a big impact on how safe you can be on the roads. Make sure headlights and brakes are working properly so that you can see ahead and react quickly to any sudden issues.
  • Buckle up. You should always wear a seat belt when traveling in a motor vehicle. You should require the same of all passengers. Small children should be restrained in a car seat. Bulky costumes should be removed to allow the restraints to fit properly.
  • Be careful dropping off. When dropping off youngsters for trick-or-treating, make sure they exit the car onto the sidewalk, not into the street. Using your hazard lights can help other drivers steer clear.

Ways that Pedestrians can Stay Safe

Drivers are not the only ones who need to be vigilant to keep Halloween safe. Here are some ways that pedestrians can focus on safety:

  • Be visible. Dark costumes make it difficult for drivers to see you. Wearing lighter clothing helps. Using reflective materials, flashlights, or glow sticks can also allow you to be seen at night. It is also important to make sure costumes allow the wearer to see, which will help with all kinds of safety issues from avoiding being hit by a car to evading tripping hazards.
  • Avoid the dark altogether. If feasible, the best idea might be to do your trick-or-treating before the sun disappears. This avoids traveling on dark roads and makes for better costume viewing.
  • Stay on the sidewalk. Trick-or-treaters should not run across streets when traveling from house to house. Instead, visit all the houses on one side of the street and then cross over to make your way down the other side of the block.
  • Watch children. Parents should accompany children under 12. Everyone should be careful on Halloween, but the youngest goblins need supervision to be safe.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. Help Accident Victims Seek Redress

If you or someone you love was hurt in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, you should be able to collect compensation to cover your losses. The at-fault driver should have insurance that covers your claim, but if your claim is denied or if the payout does not cover your damages, you may be able to sue to recover what you are due. The Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. can represent you in an appeal for a denied claim or in a lawsuit against a negligent driver. Call us today at 215-569-9100 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.