Keeping pedestrians safe this Halloween

Maryland — Halloween is one of the largest nights of celebration in neighborhoods across the country – but it’s also one of the most dangerous for pedestrians. Trick-or-treating on Halloween is an annual formative experience for kids – but it’s important to know how to stay safe before dressing up and heading out.

With significant foot traffic, masks, and lower adherence to street-crossing safety – it’s easier for accidents to occur. And low visibility in the evening makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.

Eric Lee, Crisfield chief of police, said that one of the biggest safety tips is making sure that pedestrians are highly visible.

“Visibility is paramount. Try to wear the brightest costumes, as I said before. Especially at nighttime around Halloween, it gets darker a little early. So I would highly recommend that,” Lee said.

An analysis of traffic fatality data by Journal of the American Medical Association found a 43 percent pedestrian fatality risk increase on Halloween, making it crucial for drivers to take extra safety measures while on the roads.

“Slow down, reduce your speed and drive with extra caution, especially in residential neighborhoods. Eliminate your distractions, put down phones and stay alert,” Lee said.

For pedestrians, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration encourages trick-or-treaters to go out with a buddy, obey the rules of the road, look both ways, and use crosswalks whenever possible. For drivers – slow down, watch for children in unexpected places, and stay sober this Halloween.

“Make smart decisions. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t let a $12 Uber ride or a phone call for a ride turn into thousands of dollars in legal fees or call someone’s life for your own,” Lee said.