Safe Halloween Driving

Halloween is one of the top three days for pedestrian accidents and fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It is important for drivers to be especially alert during the holiday when children are out trick-or-treating, usually between the hours between 4 and 8 p.m., as this is when most pedestrian accidents involving young people occur. The NHTSA provides some safety tips for driving on Halloween:

• Drive slowly: Slow down when driving through neighborhoods. Children may not be paying attention when crossing the street. Give yourself plenty of time to brake in case a child unexpectedly darts in front of your vehicle.
• Watch out for young pedestrians: Stay alert and look out for children, especially at night when visibility is reduced. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that 69,000 victims were injured, and another 5,376 lost their lives in pedestrian accidents involving a vehicle in 2015 alone. Most of these accidents happened at night, outside of intersections.
• Do not pass stopped vehicles: Parents often drop off their kids to trick-or-treat with their friends. If you see a stopped vehicle, do not pass it, as the driver may be dropping off or picking up children.
• Avoid distractions: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), distracted driving results in approximately nine fatalities and 1,000 injuries each day. Stay focused on the road and put your phone away while you are driving.
• Celebrate responsibly: Alcohol is the number one factor in fatal car accidents. If you are planning to drink, designate a sober driver or make other travel arrangements. Never drink and drive.
• Obey traffic laws: Use your turn signals to let other drivers know when you are turning. Turn on your hazard lights when dropping off or picking up children. Do not exceed the speed limit and use caution through intersections and when crossing alleys.

Drive Safely During the Fall Season

It is not only important to take extra safety precautions on Halloween, but also during the rest of the fall season. Driving hazards such as rainy weather, fog and sun glare are all increased during the fall. Additionally, falling autumn leaves that cover the street can mask potholes and other road hazards; be careful when driving over them as wet leaves can be as slippery and dangerous as black ice.

Inspect your vehicle for any signs of damage and be sure to replace your windshield wipers. Avoid using wax products that can increase glare and make sure your windshield is clean and streak-free before driving. Wear sunglasses when driving during the day to help alleviate sun glare, a contributing factor in many fall accidents. Finally, check your tire pressure, which can fluctuate when temperatures change.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Represent Pedestrian Accident Victims

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, contact a skilled Philadelphia car accident lawyer at Galfand Berger LLP. From our offices in Philadelphia, Reading, Lancaster and Bethlehem, we represent clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us at 800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.