A study conducted by AutoInsurance.com analyzed 24 years’ worth of data provided by the NHTSA and shows that weeknight Halloweens holidays were much more dangerous for children and pedestrians in general than a weekend Halloween holiday. The study concluded that most pedestrian injuries and deaths happen between the hours of 6pm and 7pm, and occur in the middle of the street.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
• Walk on a sidewalk, if one is available.
• Use crosswalks.
• Watch for cars that are turning or backing up.
• Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
• Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, tell them to stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.
Safety Tips for Drivers
• Be alert for trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Slow down and continue to scan the road in areas where they are likely to be or where sight distances are limited.
• Slower speeds save lives. On Halloween, there will likely be more pedestrians on the roads and in places where they are not expected.
• Stop, wait for them to pass. Stay alert for pedestrians who may come out from between parked cars or behind shrubbery.
• Your attention needs to always be on the road. Don’t ever look at your phone when you’re driving.
• If you see a drunk driver on the road, pull over and contact law enforcement and file a police report.
Tips for Party Hosts
Be a responsible party host and take action when needed to make sure guests get home safely.
• Serve plenty of food and provide non-alcoholic beverage options.
• Talk to and collect car keys from guests who are drinking.
• Prepare to call taxis, Ubers, provide sleeping accommodations, or—if you’re sober—drive guests home yourself.
Remember that social host liability laws may hold you responsible for parties where underage people drink, regardless of who furnishes the alcohol, and you could be held legally responsible for your guests’ behavior after they leave your party.
Injuries from being a pedestrian hit by a vehicle can be catastrophic. The personal injury attorneys at The Brad Hendricks Law Firm can help! We've been handling accident victims cases in Arkansas since 1994. If you or a loved one is injured as a pedestrian or you are involved in a car accident on Halloween, reach out to our Personal Injury Lawyers and we'll answer any questions you may have about your case.
We hope you and your family have a safe and happy Halloween!
