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Something really scary: Child pedestrian accidents on Halloween

Halloween is one of the deadliest times of the year for child pedestrian accidents.

With summer coming to a close and fall on its heels, parents in Yuma will still need to be vigilant about pedestrian accidents involving their children. Instead of children walking to the neighborhood pool or friends’ homes, many will soon be walking to and from school and the bus stop. It is also crucial that parents realize that one of the most fun holidays for children, Halloween, is also one of the deadliest days of the year.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, 157 people were killed and an additional 1,347 injured in the state last year from being hit by cars. Many of these pedestrian accidents occurred during the fall months. Once the seasons change and it begins to get darker earlier, it is more difficult for drivers to see people walking near traffic. This is especially true during Halloween, when children who are often excited will be taking to the streets after dark.

Risks children face on Halloween

The Children’s Safety Network states that more child pedestrians are killed in crashes during Halloween than any other day of the year. The risk of a child being hit and killed by a car is more than double the risk on any other day. This is due in part to children’s visibility at night and often not looking before crossing the street. Parents may help their children to stay safe during Halloween by teaching them the following:

  • Cross the street at intersections and marked crosswalks.
  • Always look before crossing, since many parents will also be out driving their children from neighborhood to neighborhood.
  • Take a flashlight or glow stick trick-or-treating.
  • Watch out for cars backing out of driveways and never dart out into the street.

Pedestrian accidents are particularly dangerous to children, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Children often receive serious head injuries, broken bones or pelvic injuries when hit by a car.

Driver fails to see people crossing street on Halloween in Phoenix

An accident that occurred in Phoenix last year illustrated just how quickly a fun night trick-or-treating can turn tragic. According to The Arizona Republic, a group of people were crossing the street and were struck by a 75-year-old driver who did not see them in the road. Four of the victims, including two children, were in critical condition and one more person received minor injuries.

Despite the best precautions, including crossing the street safely and making efforts to be visible, it is not always possible to prevent a pedestrian accident. If you or a loved one was involved in a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your options.