Halloween Night the Deadliest of the Year for Pedestrian Accidents

 Posted on October 27, 2011 in Firm News

The haunted houses and scary costumes are not the only things frightening about Halloween. For pedestrians, the night of October 31st is the deadliest of the year, according to AAA.

"Whether walking or driving AAA urges all road users to utilize extra caution, be mindful of their surroundings and celebrate responsibility," explained a spokeswoman from AAA. The organization provided several safety tips to prevent pedestrian accidents during the upcoming holiday.

Road Safety Precautions During Halloween

• Watch your speed: A pedestrian accident is over twice as likely to be fatal if a vehicle is going 35 mph instead of 25 mph. Slowing down, just a little, can make a big difference.
• Keep an eye out for kids: Eagar trick-or-treaters, many in dark costumes, may quickly run out of driveways and into streets. Be alert for children everywhere, including on curbs, medians and behind parked cars. Also be aware that masks may restrict kids' visibility, making them less likely to see oncoming traffic.
• Avoid neighborhood streets when possible: Since trick-or-treaters are most likely going to be on residential streets try to avoid neighborhood shortcuts when possible. If you are having a Halloween party at your home, try to direct guests through major, well-lit roadways and remind them to be alert for children.

Parents of trick-or-treaters should also take appropriate precautions. These include selecting costumes with appropriate visibility, accompanying young children, reminding children to check for cars before crossing the street and always buckling up, even if only driving between neighborhoods.

Source: ABC15, Halloween is the deadliest night for pedestrians, 25 October 2011