Pedestrian Safety on Halloween
Halloween is the time when the streets become filled with little ghosts and goblins going door to door in search of treats and goodies. It is a fun time for grown-ups too, and Charleston Halloween festivities are among the best in the country. Hayrides, corn mazes, haunted houses, and harvest hoedowns all provide opportunities to enjoy the sights and smells of autumn, and getting creative in terms of costumes and decorations is something at which many Charlestonians excel. Whether you are the parents of little ones getting ready to make the rounds or are among the many adults who will head to friends’ homes, local hot spots and watering holes, it is important to be aware of the increase in the number of pedestrians on the roads at this time of year. Injuries due to pedestrian accidents are at an all-time high over Halloween. Whether you will be driving or out walking on All Hallows’ Eve, taking extra precautions can ensure that both you and your loved ones stay safe.
Safety Tips for Motorists At Halloween
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrian accidents. The combination of adults driving to or from parties and Halloween events with pedestrians out trick or treating or walking to local festivities is potentially lethal, and the NHTSA reports that almost a quarter of pedestrian fatalities each year occur on Halloween. To ensure everyone’s safety, the NHTSA recommends the following safety tips for motorists on Halloween:
- Enter and exits driveways carefully
- Slow down and drive below the speed limit in residential areas
- Eliminate distractions so you can focus on the what is going on around you
- Be alert for pedestrians walking on the road, in crosswalks, and at intersections
- Watch for children on sidewalks who may end up stepping into traffic
According to the NHTSA, alcohol is a contributing factor in 38 percent of all Halloween accidents. If you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even certain prescribed medications, do not get behind the wheel of a car. Call a cab, and make sure that friends do not drive drunk either.
Pedestrian Safety Tips At Halloween
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children are four times more likely to be struck by a car than at any other time of the year. Whether you are out taking the children trick or treating or heading to a Halloween party or costume contest, the American Automobile Association offers the following pedestrian safety tips:
- Make sure young children are supervised while out trick or treating
- Wear bright colors, and use reflective tape on costumes
- Avoid masks that can obstruct vision
- Stay on sidewalks and cross only at designated crosswalks
- Carry a flashlight, and point it facing down to avoid causing glare to drivers
- Look left, then right, then left again before crossing traffic, and listen closely for the sound of approaching vehicles
- Always look before crossing driveways or entrances and exits
While it is important for drivers to remain alcohol-free, it is also important for pedestrians to be aware of the danger of walking while under the influence. Alcohol and prescription drugs can impair your judgment, and increase your risk of injury.
We Are Prepared to Help You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm. Our experienced South Carolina accident attorneys understand serious, potentially fatal injuries caused by these accidents. We will fight to hold responsible parties accountable and get you the compensation you deserve. Contact our firm today and arrange a free, no-obligation case evaluation.