If you are going to be driving this Halloween, you need to be hyper aware. Trick-or-treating may be held at various times throughout the state, with some localities hosting it in the afternoon and some during the evening hours. Check your local newspaper for specific times.
No matter what time the little ones will be out and about, it’s important that you keep your eyes peeled. Trick-or-treaters are excited and have one thing on their mind – candy! They may forget all of the lessons they’ve been taught about being safe around vehicles, so it is up to you to do the thinking for them. Here are some tips to help you out this Halloween.
1. Make Your Car Visible
The more visible your car, the less likely it is to be ignored by little ones. Hang a flashing LED light in the back window, think wedding and string some tin cans from your back bumper or turn your hazard lights on. Anything you can do to ensure that little ones will see your vehicle is a good idea.
2. Drive Even Slower
The speeds posted in a residential area are typically under 35 miles per hour, but you should drive even slower. Consider cutting your typical speed by 10 mph or more. Come to a virtual creep as you move through neighborhoods. Better yet, avoid driving down a residential street until after trick-or-treat is over if you can help it.
3. Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving is the number one cause of car accidents throughout the nation. It can be an even bigger problem on Halloween. Don’t do anything behind the wheel that will take your attention away from the task at hand – driving. Keep your eyes focused on the road ahead and stay on the lookout for little ones.
4. Don’t Drink and Drive
Halloween isn’t just for children. The night is becoming the biggest holiday for adults. As such, you may find yourself attending a party or two. If you do, it’s fair to say that you may have a few adult beverages. Don’t drink and drive. Either spend the night where you are or arrange for a sober ride home.
5. Driveway Dangers
If you have to back out of your driveway, take a walk around your vehicle first. Look down the sidewalk and at the houses across the street. If you notice children in the area, be extra vigilant when backing out. A child can run behind your car without you noticing.
If you are involved in an accident in Charlotte on Halloween, reach out to our office. If the accident was someone else’s fault, we may be able to help you secure damages for medical bills, lost wages and more. Call today to schedule an appointment for a free case evaluation. Our personal injury attorneys will review the details of your case and advise you of your legal options. Call now or browse our website for more information about our firm and the types of cases we handle.