Halloween Injury Prevention Tips for a Safe Halloween

October 31, 2019

General

By John Torgenson

Happy Halloween to all of our readers! This year has truly flown by, and the holiday season is right around the corner. As always, the holidays should be a fun and joyful experience for friends and family. However, as Arizona Injury Lawyers, we know that the most essential component of a successful holiday season is safety. But, the added risks and safety hazards of holiday parties, travel, and shopping arise much earlier than the week of Thanksgiving. While it may shock some of you, October is actually one of the scariest months of the year when it comes to personal injuries. In fact, October 2018 saw the most motor vehicle crashes in all of last year.

The month of October may be coming to an end today, but Halloween itself can be the most frightening day of the year for more reasons than the scary costumes and decorations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Halloween is consistently one of the top three days for pedestrian injuries and fatalities. The combination of nighttime activities, pedestrian traffic (particularly children), Halloween festivities involving adult beverages, and distractions in general create an increased risk of harm and catastrophe. Nonetheless, we, at Torgenson Law love Halloween and want you all to partake and enjoy the festivities. So, here are a few tips to ensure that you, your family, and your friends can avoid injury scares this Halloween night and weekend.

For Trick-or-Treaters:

Parents should always accompany and maintain supervision of their little ghouls and goblins. It is important to maintain control over the excitement and chaos that accompanies the anticipated Halloween treats.
Stay on the sidewalks, use crosswalks, and pay attention to traffic signals. Any night, the roads can be dangerous places for pedestrians. On Halloween, this is especially true. Be on the lookout for reckless driving and constantly remind your children to look both ways before crossing a street.
Be visible. As you know, the days are growing shorter and shorter. This Halloween, consider trick-or-treating before the sun goes down. If you are out after dark, choose a costume with brighter colors, wear glow sticks, or carry a flashlight. This will make it easier for motorists to see you.

For Motorists:

Be cautious around neighborhoods and residential roads. Children will be out and about, excited to go from house to house. Drive slowly and beware of children darting out into the street.
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE. In 2019, there is simply no excuse to drive while drunk. Call a friend, designated driver, or a rideshare vehicle if you have or know you will be drinking tonight or during the weekend.
Avoid distractions. You should never be on your phone while driving. This is never more true than it is on Halloween when pedestrian traffic dramatically increases. Also, do not let the various decorations and costumes convince you to take your eyes of the road.

For Homeowners & Party Hosts

If you are planning on staying in and handing out candy and other treats tonight:
- Make sure your property is free of tripping hazards and obstacles; and
- Light the path to your door, so young trick-or-treaters can safely retrieve the Halloween treats.

If you are hosting a Halloween party that serves “boos” (see what we did there?):
- Do not serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21; and
- Ensure your guests have designated drivers and do not allow them to drive home drunk;
- If someone is obviously intoxicated, cut him or her off completely.

Halloween should always be fun and a little spooky for all ages. Sure, there increased injury risks due to high pedestrian traffic and Halloween parties involving adult beverages. Nonetheless, Halloween does not need to be dangerous. At Torgenson Law, we simply ask that you be smart this Halloween and be mindful of your surroundings. As always, if you or a loved one suffers a personal injury, our legal team at Torgenson Law is here for you. Give us a call at (602) 726-0747.

Have a safe Halloween Arizona!

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