Trick-or-Treat Safety Tips

Halloween is a holiday that both children and adults look forward to each year.  Unfortunately, Halloween can also be dangerous for pedestrian trick-or-treaters.  Below are some Halloween safety tips for a safe and sweet trick-or-treat experience for both pedestrians and drivers.

Safety Tips for Pedestrian Trick-or-Treaters

Stay On Sidewalks and Pedestrian Paths - Pedestrian trick-or-treaters should try to stay on sidewalks and pedestrian paths.  If there are no sidewalks, pedestrians should walk facing oncoming traffic.  Pedestrians should also try to walk as far to the side of the road as possible.  Pedestrians should walk under the assumption that the drivers coming toward them are not able to see them.

Follow the Rules of the Road – Pedestrians should try to cross the road at crosswalks.  They should not run or dart across the road.  Trick-or-treaters may need to remove their masks so visibility is not obstructed.

Wear Reflective Tape – Children and adults should use or wear reflective tape for costumes and trick-or-treat bags.  Parents may even consider wearing a reflective jacket.

Carry Cell Phone – Pedestrians should carry a cell phone for quick communication in the event of an emergency.

Avoid Loose Dogs – Be cautious of dogs on the loose as they may become frightened or scared causing an unexpected dog bite or injury to a trick-or-treater.

‍Stay on Well Lit Streets – Pedestrians should assume that drivers are unable to see them.

Use Flashlights – Obtain flashlights for both kids and their escorts to improve the visibility of trick-or-treaters.  

Safety Tips for Drivers

Slow Down - Drivers should slow down on Halloween and during designated trick-or-treat hours.  Because of the excitement of trick-or-treating, kids run from house to house and often dart out into the road.  By reducing speed, a driver will be able to stop before hitting a child that runs out in front of the vehicle.  
Watch Driveways – Drivers should carefully enter and exit driveways to avoid kids who may be running or darting out into the driveway.

Do Not Use Cell Phone -  Because a child may run out into the road, even a quick glance at the cell phone could cause a devastating accident.  Avoid all distractions so you are able to focus on the road and surroundings.

Turn On Headlights – Turn on headlights earlier in the day so you are able to spot the pedestrian trick-or-treaters from farther distances.  
Report Drunk Driving – During Halloween, drunk drivers are common and dangerous on the road.  If you suspect a driver of drunk driving, you should contact local law enforcement.

Designate a Sober Driver  – Halloween is also a night of adult parties involving drinking.  Designate a sober driver or use other means of transportation such as Uber and Lyft.  

With the above safety tips, Natasha Misra Law would like to wish you a sweet, spooky and safe Halloween!  If you have any questions about an accident involving a pedestrian trick-or-treater, please contact our office at 414-210-3834 for a free consultation with a Milwaukee personal injury attorney.