Halloween is one of the deadliest days of the year for pedestrians with a 43% higher fatality rate. According to JAMA Pediatrics, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported a 42-year study from 1975 to 2016. On Halloween weekends, there were a total of 1,580 ,608 fatal traffic crashes involving 2 ,333 ,302 drivers and 268, 468 pedestrians. With daylight getting shorter as we move into the fall months and the increase in pedestrian traffic, especially children on Halloween night– it’s crucial to be extra careful to avoid tragedy. Here are a few tips for Halloween safety to avoid an accident:
Halloween Safety Tips For Drivers
Don’t Drive Distracted
Don’t get too comfortable behind the wheel, it only takes a split second of not keeping your eyes on the road to make all the difference. Avoid all distractions that will divert your attention from the road. Turn off your phone while the car is moving. Keep any music low enough to hear pedestrians. Halloween trick-or-treaters will provide enough road distractions, don’t add any more.
Use Your Headlights
Even if it isn’t dark, keeping your headlights on will increase your visibility to pedestrians and other drivers. Remain watchful and vigilant for trick-or-treaters who may dart out across the road or between parked cars.
Slow Down
The increase in pedestrian traffic means that you should drive slower than the speed limit. This will allow you extra stopping time and give you more time to scan the surrounding area to check for trick-or-treaters. Be extremely cautious when pulling onto a street or exiting a driveway. Avoid passing any stopped vehicles; children may be exiting from them.
Yield To Pedestrians
Never assume that children see you. They are likely thinking about the next stash of candy. Watch for children darting between parked cars or running across the street without looking. If possible, avoid areas where Halloween festivities may be taking place such as small streets and neighborhoods.
Halloween Safety Tips For Trick Or Treaters
Increase Visibility
Try to trick-or-treat before it gets too dark. Choose costumes that have light, bright colors, or add reflective tape. Carry a flashlight, and stay in well lit areas.
Adult Supervision
Don’t go trick-or-treating by yourself, kids. Children should travel in groups, and an adult should accompany for safety purposes. Make sure your cell phones are charged.
Follow Pedestrian Rules
Stay on the sidewalks, look both ways before crossing the street, and don’t cross between cars. Walk, don’t run, and don’t assume that the pedestrian has the right of way.
With these Halloween safety tips, everyone can have a safe and spooky evening.
Looking for more tips for driving safely? Winter is coming. Be sure to follow these Winter Truck Driving Tips.