Here’s a scary fact. On Halloween, more than four times the average number of pedestrian motor vehicle fatalities occur among kids five to 15 years of age, according to the American Academy of Pediatricians.
While most fleet drivers may not be on duty that night, delivery vans or service vehicles may be working in residential neighborhoods on Halloween in the late afternoon or early evening. And Halloween celebrations last beyond Oct. 31. In the evenings before and after the actual day, many teenagers and college students hold costume parties.
Now is the right time to remind drivers to be extra vigilant when driving in residential areas on and around Halloween. Experts offer the following advice:
The single best thing you can do when driving in residential areas on Halloween is to travel at a slow pace. Always obey the speed limit. In fact, experts advise never exceeding 25 mph — even if the speed limit is higher. This gives you more time to react if a child suddenly darts out into the road in front of your vehicle.
As soon as dusk hits, turn on your headlights. Costumes are often dark colors and because kids are small, they are already difficult to see. Newly released 2018 FARS data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that a staggering 76% of pedestrian fatalities occurred after dark.
Make Complete Stops
Look out for trick-or-treaters and be sure to make complete stops at stop signs and crosswalks. Use added caution at intersections. However, it’s important to stay vigilant. The 2018 FARS data also revealed that 74% of pedestrian fatalities occurred when people were crossing in the middle of the street or road. That behavior on the part of pedestrians is even more likely to occur on Halloween.
Never pass another vehicle, especially on a dark road. That vehicle may be masking small children up ahead that you are unable to see.
Use Defensive Driving
Not everyone follows the rules, so watch out for people in the street and for sudden moves on the part of other drivers. You want to be fully prepared to quickly respond to any dangerous situation.
As always, Halloween is no time to be distracted behind the wheel. Do not use your cell phone, GPS, or radio when navigating through residential neighborhoods. And don't open your Halloween candy when behind the wheel — it can wait until your shift is over.