Halloween Pedestrian Deaths Double for Children, Experts Warn
Safe Kids Worldwide reports that kids are twice as likely to be struck by vehicles on October 31, urging reflective gear and reduced driver speed.
By Carlos Rousseau ·
The arrival of October 31 brings a surge in pedestrian activity that coincides with a sharp rise in traffic fatalities for young walkers. New data released by the nonprofit Safe Kids Worldwide indicates that children face a heightened risk of being struck by vehicles on the holiday compared to any other date in the calendar year.
The organization states that a child is more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day. Torine Creppy, president of Safe Kids Worldwide, noted that the likelihood of a pedestrian being struck increases by a factor of three on the night. She attributed this rise to children becoming distracted by costumes, candy, and the excitement of the event, which often leads families to lower their guard.
To mitigate these risks, Safe Kids Worldwide advises households to prioritize visibility for trick-or-treaters. Creppy said the organization’s primary goal is to educate the public on the importance of being seen. The group recommends that families attach reflective tape or stickers to costumes and treat bags. Selecting lighter-colored outfits and using glow sticks or flashlights are also suggested to help drivers spot children from a distance.
The nonprofit further advises parents to use face paint rather than masks, as masks can obstruct a child’s peripheral vision. When crossing streets, children should use designated crosswalks and traffic signals. They must look left, right, and left again before proceeding and continue to watch for traffic while in the roadway. Creppy emphasized that children should make eye contact with drivers before crossing and avoid walking between parked cars.
For those under the age of 12, Safe Kids Worldwide recommends adult supervision. Older children should stay in familiar, well-lit areas and travel in groups. Parents should ensure costumes fit properly to prevent trips and falls. Creppy said families do not have to sacrifice fun for safety if they take these simple precautions.
Drivers are urged to play an active role in preventing accidents. Creppy asked motorists to slow down in residential neighborhoods and expect more children walking near roads, drivages, and intersections. The organization identifies peak trick-or-treating hours as generally falling between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. During this window, drivers should eliminate distractions inside their vehicles and keep their eyes on the road.
The safety campaign runs through the evening of October 31. Safe Kids Worldwide will continue to remind families and drivers that attentiveness is key to keeping the holiday safe.
