Halloween is a fun holiday for all, but it is also a time when drunk drivers plague the roads.
According to Traffic Safety Marketing research, 44 percent of all motor-vehicle fatalities on Halloween were due to the negligence of drunk drivers. Why is it so dangerous to share the road on Halloween and what can you do to stay safe?
Everyone knows that Halloween is popular for children, as they enjoy dressing up as their favorite characters or animals. However, this holiday is also gaining popularity for adults, as many choose to attend parties that involve drinking alcohol.
Recent data shows that over 175 million Americans plan to participate in Halloween activities. With many young adults choosing to spend Halloween night with friends or at a party, the risk of drinking and driving is high. The possibility of DUI arrests, drunk driving and crashing increase on this night.
Stay safe on Halloween when trick-or-treating
Cars are more than two times as likely to hit children in the road on Halloween. How can you keep your kids safe when out at night trick-or-treating?
- Stay with the kids: Many parents accompany their children when out trick-or-treating, which is important to their safety. Stay by their side or keep a close eye on them to make sure they are not running into the road without looking.
- Choose costumes wisely: Many kids choose costumes that are dark in color, but this can prove dangerous at night. If possible, have the child choose a bright-colored costume, or use reflective tape on darker costumes. This will help drivers avoid children possibly in their path.
- Stay on the sidewalks: If possible, do not let your children cross the street if not at an intersection. With drunk drivers on the streets, running into the street before looking can result in a fatal accident.
Stay safe on Halloween when driving
The best way to stay safe on the road on Halloween is to know the signs of a drunk driver and avoid cars that are exhibiting them. These signs include:
- Weaving in and out of lanes without signaling
- Erratic speed control
- Illegal turns
- Running red lights
- Visibly seeing someone consume alcohol behind the wheel
Halloween can be dangerous to individuals, especially if there are impaired drivers around. However, you do not need to put yourself in danger. By following the safety tips listed above, you may avoid a terrible accident.