Whether you are trick-or-treating with children or partying with friends, Halloween is an opportunity to enjoy yourself as fall sets in. However, the combination of large crowds, dark nights, and often cold weather can result in an evening that is anything but fun. Accidents can happen, and the injuries that come with them are often serious. Here are a few of our tips for preventing accidents and injuries on Halloween.
Ensure You Are Visible
The vast majority of pedestrian accidents happen after dark. Spotting people traveling by foot can be a challenge for drivers at night under the best of circumstances, but the crowds and unusual costumes often add challenge. The best way to ensure motorists will see you while traveling by foot is to wear something highly visible. This might include reflective tape or even accessories that glow in the dark.
Make Your Home Safe for Visitors
In addition to protecting yourself from harm, taking some reasonable steps to shield others from avoidable accidents on your property is a good idea. Removing any trip hazards from your driveway, walkway, or porch is an important part of the process. This can include toys, bikes, or garden hoses. If you have large yard decorations held down by string or wires, marking those lines with caution tape might be a good idea.
Yield to Cars
If you are traveling on foot on Halloween, take great care when crossing streets. Never assume a driver sees you or is planning to stop. When possible, wait for the road to clear before crossing. If you are trick-or-treating with children, it is important to help them understand the dangers of motor vehicles.
Be Mindful of Candy
Candy is one of the best parts of Halloween, but it is important to be safe—especially if you have food allergies. It is a good idea to avoid homemade treats, especially from people you don’t know. Always read the label of factory-wrapped candy you are not familiar with.
Watch Your Step
Falls are one of the most common injuries on Halloween. Different factors lead to these incidents, from low lighting to wearing unfamiliar shoes or clothing. Take care to travel in well-lit areas when possible and always step carefully.
Talk to Lopez Franco When Disaster Strikes
Despite your best efforts, accidental injuries can still happen when you cross paths with a negligent person. This is true even when you make every reasonable effort to enjoy the holiday safely.
At Lopez Franco, we are dedicated to helping the injured. We have spent years pursuing fair compensation in everything from 18-wheeler accidents to wrongful death claims. If you have been hurt through no fault of your own, contact us right away for a free consultation.