One of the scariest truths of Halloween is that it is one of the deadliest nights for pedestrians. In most cases the victims are children, so here are a few ways to reduce the risk of a child or adult being injured or killed this Halloween.

Trick or Treat Safety Tips

· If children are walking in the dark, give them a flashlight, so they can be seen by drivers. Glow sticks can further aid visibility.

· Don’t assume the right of way, as motorists may not see you.

· Children should stay on sidewalks instead of walking between cars or on lawns where there could be ornaments or wires that could be a tripping hazard.

· Parents should accompany children if they are younger than 12 years old.

· Children should walk and not run from house to house.

· Remind children to look for cars when walking by a driveway.

· Consider a costume that is a lighter color and more visible to motorists. Add reflective material front and back; it can even be part of the design.

· Do not use a cell phone or other mobile device while driving. Pull over safely to check voice messages, or texts, as needed.

· Pull over to safe locations to let children exit curb side, away from traffic. Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers of not only your car, but to exercise caution. Especially on Halloween, they might be extra wary for children as a result.

· Watch for children who may dart out into the street and always yield to pedestrians-where there is one- there are likely others ready to cross.

· Drive slowly in and around neighborhoods and residential streets.

· Try to part in a spot where you won’t need to back up, but if you must, have an adult outside to make sure no children are in the way.

· If you are driving children around for trick or treating, make sure they are buckled up appropriately with a child safety seat or vehicle seatbelt. Do this each and every time they enter the car, and check before driving to the next stop.

· Do not drink and drive. Drunk driving incidents increase on Halloween; motorists should be more responsible, know that this evening is especially dangerous.

The lawyers at Gump & Faiella wish you a safe and happy Halloween.

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