Local law firm offers Halloween safety tips to help prevent pedestrian accidents
While Halloween is supposed to be a fun holiday, it is the deadliest day of the year for child pedestrians. Children are three times more likely to be fatally injured by a car on Halloween, according to the Washington Post. Even more frightening, the risk of a fatal pedestrian accident for children 4 to 8 years old is 10 times greater on Halloween.
Policymakers have found that roads have become increasingly more dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists in the past decade. More pedestrians and cyclists were killed in traffic accidents in recent years than in any other year in the last three decades. Experts attribute this increase to poor city planning, poor public policies, road deficiencies, and lack of traffic control. Issues such as a lack of sidewalks, unsafe street crossings, insufficient space, and failure to stop speeding become more apparent on Halloween when more pedestrians are out.
Additionally, many trick-or-treaters go out at night when it is more difficult for drivers to see them. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports the twilight hours are the most dangerous for pedestrians. A study released in JAMA Pediatrics in which researchers analyzed 42 years of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data found that 6 p.m. is the most dangerous time for young trick-or-treaters since it represents both rush hour and sunset. Researchers also found a 43 percent increase in pedestrian deaths on Halloween, compared to the number of pedestrian fatalities a week before and a week after Halloween.
The pedestrian accident lawyers at Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C., recommend using the following Halloween safety tips to stay safe while out this year:
- Look both ways before crossing the street
- Use reflective tape on costumes so they are easier to see
- Supervise younger children
- Plan a route with older children before they go out for the night
- Travel only in familiar, well-lit areas
- Travel in small groups, if possible
- Keep electronic devices down and your eyes up
- Go to houses on one side of the road and then the other instead of crisscrossing the street
If you’re a driver, follow these Halloween safety tips:
- Slow down and keep a lookout for pedestrians
- Avoid residential streets on Halloween, if possible
- Avoid drinking and driving
- Make alternative arrangements for transportation home if you’re going to a Halloween party
About Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C.
Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C., is a Chicago-based personal injury firm founded more than 40 years ago. Its team of top litigators has recovered more than $1.6 billion in compensation for clients to date. The firm’s attorneys handle a wide array of personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents, pedestrian accidents, cyclist accidents, medical malpractice, product liability, and more.
If you or a loved one was hurt in a pedestrian accident, you are encouraged to contact Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C., for a free consultation.
