Preparing for Halloween: The Risks of Trick-or-Treating
As Halloween gets closer, the excitement for trick-or-treating just keeps building. But to keep our kids safe, we need to remember some of the hidden dangers of the holiday. These risks include the potential for accidents caused by drivers who aren’t paying attention and hit a trick-or-treater, dark streets that act as tripping hazards, and unsafe costumes.
It’s essential to recognize these risks and take steps to keep your family safe. If you or your child is hurt while Trick-or-Treating, we will fight for you.
Our client tripped and fell on uneven pavement while out and about. She hit her head and required medical treatment. The apartment complex didn’t want to pay, but we made sure they did and won her $5,000 to cover her costs.
Common Halloween trick-or-treating hazards
Here are some common safety concerns while your family is out trick-or-treating.
Pedestrian accidents
Kids are often excited and might not pay full attention while wandering around in masks and capes, which restrict their vision. This increases their risk of getting hit by cars. To prevent this, be sure to accompany young children while trick-or-treating and encourage them to use sidewalks and crosswalks.
As drivers, we should drive more slowly than normal through our neighborhoods on Halloween and be prepared for children to dart out from between parked cars. Avoid distractions like texting or using the phone while driving.
Unsafe costumes
Costumes that are too long can cause children to trip and fall, and sometimes masks can make it hard to see. Instead, wearing bright or reflective clothes helps kids stay visible when it’s dark outside. Alternatively, plan to take younger children out before it gets too dark.
Poorly lit paths or obstacles
Even the most haunted of houses should clear their yards and walkways of any tripping hazards. You can still be spooky with proper lighting (think red or orange!) and make sure that any decorations are safe and secure.
Legal responsibilities on Halloween
Homeowners need to make sure their property is safe for trick-or-treaters. If someone is hurt while on their land, the homeowner may be held liable for medical expenses and damages. The same goes for drivers — slow down and pay extra attention.
We Can Help You
The McCready Law team is here to assist anyone injured on Halloween. With extensive experience in personal injury cases for people of all ages, we are committed to securing the compensation you deserve.