Halloween Safety for Pedestrians and Drivers

Photo Credit: iStock Photo

Halloween is a night of fun for the majority of Americans, but some parents may be concerned about the safety of their children. Urban legends about poisoned candy and kidnapping have become the primary topic of conversation, though neither has been found to be true. What should be on everyone’s mind is traffic safety, both for those who are walking around the neighborhood and others who may be driving through it.Traffic offenses on Halloween are a real concern.

According to the researchers at the U-M Transportation Research Institute, children are 4.5 times more likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident on Halloween than on any other day of the year. There are approximately 3000 fatalities annually, making the individual risk low, but worth some attention. Most accidents occur after dark and involve children under the age of 15. Several other factors may contribute, including speeding, intoxication, and reduced vision. Follow these tips to keep yourself and others safe, whether you are behind the wheel or on the sidewalk.

Tips for Pedestrians

It is important for pedestrians to take responsibility for their own safety. There are several things that you can do to reduce your risk of being in a traffic accident.

• Carry a flashlight and wear a costume that will not blend into the dark.
• Trick-or-treat in a group with adults. Stick to familiar neighborhoods.
• Walk on sidewalks, not streets, whenever possible.
• Cross at designated intersections and remove face masks to see clearly.

Tips for Drivers

Drivers should be especially cautious on Halloween. The increase in pedestrians will affect your driving, so follow these guidelines.

• Follow local traffic laws for speeding, stopping at intersections, and crosswalks. Observe signage for one-way streets and avoid illegal passing or following another vehicle too closely.
• Do not wear a face mask, awkward shoes, or anything else that may hamper your ability to drive safely.
• Be aware of areas where pedestrians may frequent, but do not ignore other places either. You are more likely to not see a single person than a crowd.
• Absolutely do not drink and drive.

The North Carolina law enforcement will be out in full force with extra officers on Halloween. There may be sobriety checkpoints set up and officers will be looking for reckless driving and speeding. Even if you are not intoxicated, exhaustion or distracted driving can impair your ability to handle a vehicle. You may be asked to take a field sobriety test, which may include walking a line or breathing into a breathalyzer.

Raleigh Speeding Ticket Lawyer

If you are pulled over for speeding on Halloween, the result may be a ticket or something more serious, depending on whether you are involved in an accident. Traffic violations can result in your license being suspended based on a points system. In North Carolina, suspension occurs when you receive 12 points within three years.Contact DeMent Askew for a consultation of your circumstances. Our defense lawyers have a thorough understanding of the law and can ensure that your rights are maintained. Call 919-833-5555.