According to a 2019 study by JAMA Pediatrics, Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights to be a pedestrian. In the United States, children are more than twice as likely to be involved in fatal car accidents as pedestrians. Child pedestrian fatality risk increases on Halloween as trick-or-treaters take to the streets. Research shows that from 1975 to 2016, a total of 608 pedestrians died on Halloween night. Children aged 12 to 15 are the most vulnerable subgroup. They account for 32% of all child fatalities, while children aged 5 to 8 account for 23%.
Many factors can contribute to the increased pedestrian fatality rates on Halloween night. These include darker evenings, vision-impairing costumes, and negligent drivers. To remain safe this holiday, know the potential risks your children might face. Learn how they can be avoided.
60% of fatal accidents occurred between 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Almost 70% of these accidents occurred in the middle of the road when pedestrians weren’t using crosswalks at intersections. Young drivers aged 15 to 25 also posed the greatest risk to child pedestrians. They account for almost one-third of all child pedestrian fatalities on Halloween.
Tips to ensure the safety of child pedestrians while out trick-or-treating.
- A responsible adult should always accompany young children when walking around neighborhoods.
- Both children and adults should put away their smartphones to minimize distractions and remain aware of their surroundings.
- To increase night-time visibility, place reflective tape on children’s costumes
- Avoid costumes with masks that can obstruct a child’s vision
- Always use crosswalks at intersections
Here are some tips that drivers can follow to ensure the safety of child pedestrians on Halloween night:
- Move cautiously through neighborhoods where children may be trick-or-treating
- Watch for children wearing dark clothing during the evening
- Young, inexperienced drivers should not be encouraged to operate a vehicle
- Do not operate a vehicle after consuming alcohol
While Halloween should be a fun holiday for the whole family, serious and fatal injury accidents can and do occur.
Call a New York Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Drivers have a responsibility to watch out for pedestrians. They should be particularly cautious on Halloween when children are commonly out and about on busy streets, sidewalks, and intersections. A driver who fails to operate their vehicle responsibly and harms a child could be held liable for the injuries they cause.
Did a distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent driver cause your child harm on Halloween? If so, the New York pedestrian accident lawyers of Hach & Rose, LLP will stand up for your family and demand justice. Call us at (212) 779-0057 or fill out a contact form to discuss how we can help you during a free, no-obligation consultation.