All Hallows’ Eve is upon us. This year, Halloween falls on Sunday, so there may be parties and trick or treating on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You may see little ghouls, goblins, and ghosts running around looking for candy. This year, you will likely see more trick or treaters than last year, so it’s important to be vigilant while on the roads.
Before the sun sets. With Halloween on a Sunday this year, some kids may be getting an earlier start due to school the next day. As dusk approaches, be careful driving and stay alert for kids on the hunt for candy. Getting home before sunset will ensure that you’re not driving around while neighborhoods are filling up with trick-or-treaters on foot.
Stay alert and put down the phone! When driving in the dark, it’s especially important to stay focused. Halloween night calls for drivers to be even more alert while driving as accidents with pedestrians increase by almost 43% compared to any other night of the year. Children may be running around in residential areas and could pop out anywhere. Make sure not to use your phone while driving and drive slowly near crosswalks. If you need to respond to a text or make a call, it’s best to pull over and park in an appropriate space.
Be seen! When walking in crosswalks with trick or treaters, make sure your group can be seen by motorists. Parents, make your child noticeable by having them wear glow sticks and reflective material as well as carrying flashlights.
Choosing a costume. If you are attending a Halloween party or event, make sure your costume accessories don’t hinder your ability to safely operate your vehicle. Wings, masks, or even make-up or prosthetics can impair your ability to sit correctly in the driver’s seat or to fasten your seat belt, and can limit your range of motion or your visibility. Halloween also can be a good night to consider another type of transportation such as a rideshare or public transportation.
Don’t drink and drive! Without the pandemic restrictions of last year, this Halloween season will return to a bit more normal with Halloween and costume parties are happening throughout the weekend. If you choose to attend a Halloween party or gathering, you need to get home safely…especially if you’ve been drinking. Please call a cab, a rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft), utilize Safe Ride and Sober Ride (if available in your area), or get a ride home from a sober friend!
Stay safe and have a spooky fun Halloween!
