Halloween is a fun and exciting holiday for adults and kids alike, but for drivers and pedestrians, the nighttime trick-or-treat tradition can be a dangerous time.
In 2016, 107 people died on the roads the night of October 31st, and 21% of those killed were pedestrians.
Deadly month on roads
October is the second deadliest month on the roads, according to National Safety Council (NSC) Injury Facts. With crowds of trick-or-treaters expected in neighborhoods around the country, caution is urged for all out on the roads during the Halloween holiday.
Most crash-related fatalities for pedestrians occur when it is dark, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and pedestrian fatalities spike during Halloween night in particular. Increased pedestrian traffic, alcohol consumption, and lower visibility from costumes, masks, as well as shorter daylight hours increase the risk.
Safety tips
To help ensure safety, the NSCl recommends the following safety tips for both drivers and trick-or-treaters:
- Avoid masks, which can obstruct vision.
- A responsible adult should accompany young children.
- All pedestrians should keep heads up and avoid running across the street.
- Keep trick-or-treaters visible with reflective tape or glow sticks on costumes and bags.
- Watch for children, and enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
- Always driving attentively and disconnect from your cell phone, even hands-free.
- Designate an alcohol and drug-free driver or arrange alternate transportation.
- Discourage new, inexperienced drivers from driving on Halloween.
Visit nsc.org for more tips to stay safe not just on Halloween but year-round.
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