Spooky Safety Tips for Halloween Night
How to Drive Safely with Trick-or-Treaters Around
Halloween is full of fun and frights, but it also means extra responsibility for drivers. With trick-or-treaters filling neighborhoods, here are quick safety tips to keep everyone safe on Halloween night.
Turn Your Headlights On Early
Even if it's still light, turning on your headlights early helps you spot trick-or-treaters in dark costumes and makes you more visible to pedestrians.
Drive Slowly in Neighborhoods
Lowering your speed, ideally to 5 mph below the limit in busy neighborhoods, gives you extra time to react if a child runs across the street.
Stay Alert at Crosswalks and Intersections
Watch closely as you approach crosswalks; children may cross suddenly without looking. Always yield to pedestrians, especially in these high-traffic spots.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is dangerous on any night, but it's especially risky on Halloween. Keep your attention on the road to react quickly to any surprises.
Be Cautious Near Parked Cars
Trick-or-treaters can dart out from between parked cars, so keep a safe distance from them. It gives you more time to stop if someone appears unexpectedly.
Signal Clearly and Early
Let others know where you're going by using your turn signals well in advance. Clear communication with pedestrians and other drivers reduces the chance of accidents.
Avoid Passing Stopped Vehicles
If a vehicle is stopped by the side of the road, assume trick-or-treaters are nearby. Wait until it's clear before passing, as kids may suddenly step out.
Plan Your Route to Avoid High-Traffic Areas
Where possible, avoid routes through neighborhoods with heavy trick-or-treat traffic. Taking alternate routes reduces the risk of unexpected encounters with pedestrians.
Stay Alert for Vision-Obstructing Costumes
Masks, hats, or other costume accessories can limit a child's view of their surroundings. Be patient and yield to all pedestrians, as they may not see you approaching.
Stay Sober
If you plan to drink, don't drive. Arrange for a ride or a designated driver to keep everyone, especially kids on the streets, safe.
Following these tips will make Halloween night safer for drivers and trick-or-treaters alike. Enjoy a happy and spooky (but safe) Halloween!