Halloween night can be an enchanting experience filled with the joys of trick-or-treating and spooky celebrations. However, the heightened activity also increases the risk of accidents on Michigan roads.

According to one study, pedestrian fatalities were 43% higher on Halloween than average, with a mortality rate of 2.07 pedestrians per hour. Drivers must exercise extra caution to protect everyone on Halloween, including other motorists and enthusiastic children who might be more focused on candy than crossing the street safely.

At Fieger Law, our Michigan car accident lawyers are dedicated to keeping Michigan communities safe. Use our motorist safety tips to help prevent pedestrian and drunk driving incidents this Halloween.

Elevated Risk of Pedestrian Accidents

Every year, children dress up as witches, superheroes, and fun characters to trick-or-treat around Michigan neighborhoods. Unfortunately, this means more children are walking along and crossing roads, often after dark and sometimes without supervision.

Pedestrians are already at an elevated risk of being hit by a vehicle at night. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported in 2021 that 77% of pedestrian fatalities occurred after dark and another 2% at dusk.

On Halloween, this risk increases. A 2019 study found that the risk of being killed in a pedestrian accident is 10 times higher on Halloween than any other night for children aged 4 to 8.

If your child is hurt in a car accident on Halloween, contact a Detroit pedestrian accident lawyer. Our attorneys at Fieger Law can help you understand your rights and seek compensation for your injured child.

Tips for Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents

Drivers should take several precautionary measures to safeguard against the risk of pedestrian accidents on Halloween, including:

  • Slowing down: Lower your speed in residential areas and be extra vigilant for children who may dart into the street without warning.
  • Turning on your headlights: Even if it’s still light out, having your headlights on makes you more visible to others.
  • No distractions: Put away your cell phone and anything else that might divert your attention from the road.
  • Yielding at crosswalks: Always stop for pedestrians. Remember that they may not be paying attention or may not see you, especially young children.
  • Communicating with other road users: Use your turn signals and make eye contact with pedestrians whenever possible to ensure they see you and your intentions are clear.

Increased Danger of Drunk Driving Crashes

Halloween is also a popular night for adult parties, often involving alcohol. Unfortunately, this increases the likelihood of encountering a drunk driver.

A 2021 fact sheet from the NHTSA reported that between 2015 and 2019, 126 people were killed in drunk driving crashes on Halloween in the U.S. Furthermore, 41% of all fatal crashes on Halloween in that time frame involved at least one drunk driver.

The report also noted that 62% of the DUI-related fatalities on Halloween were adults between 21 and 34.

Tips for Avoiding Drunk Driving Incidents

With the increased likelihood of intoxicated drivers on Halloween night, motorists must exercise extra caution on the road. The following tips can help you avoid an alcohol-involved Halloween collision:

  • Be extra vigilant late at night: Many Halloween parties extend into the early morning hours. If you’re driving late, be especially cautious or plan to stay overnight so you don’t have to drive.
  • Keep a safe distance: If you suspect a driver might be impaired, stay as far away as possible and notify authorities. Signs of drunk driving include swerving erratically, moving unusually slow, or having a delayed response to traffic signals.
  • Don’t drink and drive: Always designate a sober driver or use a taxi or rideshare service if you plan to consume alcohol. Consider downloading the Uber or Lyft app on your phone ahead of time to ensure they offer rides in the area so you are prepared for the evening.

Making Halloween a Safe Experience for All on Michigan Roads

On Halloween night in Michigan, drivers must exercise extra caution to avoid pedestrian accidents involving trick-or-treaters and potential crashes due to drunk driving. By being mindful and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure that the holiday remains a treat for everyone involved.

If you or your child suffered injuries in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, talk to our skilled attorneys at Fieger Law. Our winning legal team can advise you on your rights following a car collision, whether you are a driver or pedestrian.

Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will review your case and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.