Halloween is a fun time for kids of all ages … and adults as well. Unfortunately, it is also a time of year when accidents happen at a higher rate. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm knows that with a little thought and effort, there are many ways to reduce your risk of something bad happening. We also believe it is well worth the effort. Gibbons Law Firm has represented clients in various personal injury cases at the Lake of the Ozarks and knows quite well how devastating an accident can be for everyone involved. This Halloween, there are sure to be some distracted pedestrians out and about. Likewise, there are likely to be some distracted drivers, or worse, those who are impaired. So, it is all the more important for you to be extra vigilant to keep yourself and others safe on one of the most fun nights of the year. If you want to learn what to look out for and how to stay safe this Halloween, keep reading this blog.
1) Distracted Kiddos
As much as parents look out for their kids, teach them to walk on the sidewalks and look both ways before crossing the street … kids tend to forget all these rules when they are excited. Candy and costumes are just too much of a distraction, and sometimes, kids will dart across an alleyway or a parking lot, or a road. So, when driving on Halloween night, watch very carefully for children walking on the roadways or curbs. Even if they are on the sidewalk, be prepared in case they move suddenly into the roadway. Enter driveways and cross alleys slowly and carefully and be on the lookout for kids in dark clothing or costumes.
If you are taking your kids out trick or treating, make sure
they are carrying flashlights or glow sticks.
It also helps to use reflectors or reflective tape to help them stand
out to drivers. Check your child’s costume
to make sure it fits properly and does not create a trip hazard or fire risk.
Always opt for non-toxic face paint over masks, when possible, to avoid
blocking your child’s vision. Also, even
though you will be with them, it is a great opportunity to teach and remind your
kids to never go into someone else’s house unless you know them well and trust
them.
2) Distracted Adults
Drivers on Halloween may have their own plans for the evening and may be as focused on those as the kiddos are on trick or treating. Adults, you too, should make sure your costume does not interfere with your vision or mobility while driving. Keep your eye on the road AND on the side of the road looking for pedestrians and any other seasonal hazards like deer. Don’t allow things like your passengers, your cell phone, the radio, or anything else to take your attention away from driving, not even for a few seconds. It only takes about 4-5 seconds to travel the distance of a football field when driving. Your diligence can be the key to avoiding a personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks this Halloween.
3) Drunk Drivers
It is sad to say, but around 40% of fatal car accidents occurring on Halloween each year involved at least one drunk driver. It is a popular night for parties and drinking, to be sure. But that does NOT mean it is ok to drive after drinking. Having a designated driver is a must if you plan to drink at a Halloween party. Otherwise, limiting your alcohol intake or just abstaining entirely is the right choice.
Happy Halloween from Gibbons Law Firm!
At Gibbons Law Firm, we hope you find these reminders
helpful as you plan for a fun-filled weekend.
It is our hope that you are never involved in a serious accident, but if
you find yourself in that position, please do not hesitate to call our Mid-Missouri
Law Firm. No matter what your
involvement may be, you need legal advice and representation. All you have to do is call our office at the number
below. Your first consultation is always
free. We hope you have a SAFE and Happy Halloween from Gibbons Law Firm!
Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.
