AAA Washington reminds motorists and pedestrians to be extra cautious on the roads as they celebrate Halloween. Motorists are urged to be extra alert for trick-or-treaters and avoid consuming alcohol or drugs before driving and pedestrians are encouraged to be alert, be seen and be smart when walking on the road.
This year, Halloween falls on a weekend night, providing a greater opportunity for trick-or-treaters to stay out late and more adults to attend parties where alcohol and/or marijuana is offered. This unfortunately can lead to a deadly combination. If you plan to drink alcohol or consume marijuana at a Halloween party, plan ahead and designate a sober driver or call a ride service so everyone gets home safe.
Halloween night has the most people out walking on the roads than other night of the year, making for a greater chance to have a pedestrian and vehicle collision. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research has found that a pedestrian is more than twice as likely to be killed if they are hit by a car traveling at 35 mph compared to 25 mph. What seems like a small difference — slowing down just 10 mph — can be the difference between life and death.
“As drivers and parents of trick-or-treaters, we all have the ability to keep everyone safe this Halloween,” said Jennifer Cook, AAA Washington spokesperson. “AAA encourages parents to make their children’s costumes as visible as possible and teach them the rules of the road, which especially apply on this fun night out.”
Safety tips for motorists:
Watch for children darting out into the street. Trick-or-treaters may not pay attention to cars and cross mid-block or between parked cars.
Slow down and drive with caution, especially in low-lit neighborhoods between the hours of 4 p.m. and midnight when pedestrians are most vulnerable.
Avoid driving through neighborhoods. If possible, avoid cutting through residential streets where trick-or-treaters are likely to be.
Drive sober. Always designate a sober driver if you plan to drink or consume marijuana. Visit www.PreventDUI.AAA.com to learn more.
Safety tips for pedestrians:
Trick-or-treat as a group or accompany young trick-or-treaters.
Choose disguises that don’t obstruct vision, opt for non-toxic face paint instead of masks, and add reflective material or tape to keep kids visible.
Make a plan. Review trick-or-treat safety precautions and plan your route ahead of time. Remind children never to cross the street mid-block or from between parked cars.
Buckle up. If driving trick-or-treaters between neighborhoods, always use appropriate seat belts or car seats and have children exit and enter on the passenger side of the vehicle.
In support of Halloween safety, AAA stores are offering free trick-or-treat bags to members and non-members which include a “Be Smart, Be Seen” message about the importance of pedestrian safety. Available now through Oct. 31.
