Halloween is a fun time involving family, friends, costumes and lots of candy. It is a time for children to dress up as their favorite characters and superheroes, and also a time for parents and adults to let loose a little. At the center of Halloween, is the beloved tradition of trick-or-treating, where kids all around the country are walking through neighborhoods from door to door collecting candy, many times after dark.
There are, however, certain dangers associated with Halloween, especially for all the little trick-or-treaters. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians, both because of the increased consumption of alcohol at parties and the increased pedestrian traffic in the streets.
As the streets are filled with trick-or-treaters in costume, it is important for drivers and pedestrians to remember the following safety tips:
Driver Safety Tips:
• Drive slowly and be alert, especially in residential neighborhoods;
• Use your headlights;
• Remember that children are wearing masks and their vision may be obstructed;
• Reduce any distractions in vehicles such as music and phones; and
• Be especially alert for children running and jumping into the streets.
Pedestrian Safety Tips:
• Make sure children have adult supervision;
• Make sure children only walk around familiar areas that are well lit;
• Make sure children travel in groups to make themselves more visible;
• Have trick-or-treaters each carry glow sticks or flashlights;
• Avoid very dark colored costumes;
• Use crosswalks when walking;
• Be careful for cars pulling in and out of driveways;
• Monitor alcohol consumption; and
• Choose face paint instead of masks which can obstruct vision.
We, at Greenberg & Strelitz, P.A, wish everyone a Happy Halloween, but accidents do happen. If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of an accident, contact the experienced attorneys at Greenberg & Strelitz, P.A. immediately for a free consultation by calling (561) 361-9400.
