AAA says Halloween can be one of the most dangerous nights of the year for both pedestrians and motorists. Officials say with the increased number of pedestrians trick-or-treating, the risk of cell phone distraction while driving or walking and potentially impaired party goers behind the wheel, it makes for a frightening combination.
On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year-that from “Safe Kids Worldwide.”
Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA-The Auto Club Group in Michigan, says quote, . “Since Halloween falls on a Monday, it’s likely that festivities could start as early as the end of the week and continue through the weekend,” adding, “We’re urging drivers to keep an eye out for pedestrians all weekend long, slow down in neighborhoods, and avoid distractions and impairment behind the wheel to help keep everyone safe.”
AAA is encouraging motorists and parents to be vigilant and even more alert during this time. They offer these “Be Smart - Be Safe - Be Seen” Halloween safety tips.
For drivers this weekend, AAA says everyone in the vehicle should remain seated and buckled at all times. If you are driving, focus on driving. Even going just a few miles over the speed limit in a residential neighborhood greatly increases the dangers for cyclists and pedestrians sharing the road.
And keep an eye out for trick-or-treaters. Pedestrians can be very unpredictable, especially children.
And AAA encourages trick-or-treaters to be careful as well. They say you should be visible, cross the street responsibly and don’t walk distracted. You can find more information at AAA.com
