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As Halloween looms, staying safe while enjoying the spooktacular festivities is crucial. Our latest post from our Los Angeles personal injury attorney highlights alarming personal injury statistics associated with Halloween celebrations. From costume-related incidents to trick-or-treating injuries, we offer insights to help you navigate the holiday without unwanted scares.
Halloween Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents have been on the rise nationwide. The GHSA reports the number of pedestrians killed in 2022 was the highest number since 1981. There is a spike in Halloween pedestrian deaths. One study found that children ages four to 8 years were ten times more likely to be killed in a pedestrian accident on Halloween than on other days. Safe Kids says children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween.
Safe Kids offers tips for keeping children safe when trick-or-treating on Halloween. Tips include:
- Carry flashlights and glow sticks
- Remind children to cross roads only at crosswalks and corners
- Walk on sidewalks or paths whenever possible
- Watch for vehicles that are turning or backing up
- Do not use electronic devices while walking
- Look both ways before crossing the street
- Avoid wearing masks that obstruct views
One of the best ways to protect your child during trick-or-treating is to go with your child. As an adult, you are more aware of the dangers posed by motorists.
Costume Safety
Halloween costumes pose several dangers for children, from tripping and fire hazards to strangulation and suffocation. Before Halloween, check your child’s costume to ensure it is flame-resistant. Try on the costume to ensure it fits correctly and does not pose a tripping hazard. Choose a Halloween costume that is brightly colored.
Whenever possible, wear makeup instead of wearing a mask. However, test the makeup for allergic reactions 24 to 48 hours before by placing a small amount on your child’s arm. You can check the FDA’s list of color additives to verify whether the colors in makeup are FDA-approved.
Halloween Candy Safety
Your children might argue, but they should not eat trick-or-treat candy until it is inspected at home. Eating a snack or dinner before trick-or-treating helps reduce the temptation to eat candy before it has been inspected. Parents should remove choking hazards like gum, hard candy, and small toys from Halloween bags for small children.
It is also wise to tell children not to eat or accept candy or food items that are not commercially wrapped. You cannot be sure what ingredients were used to make homemade treats that could trigger allergic reactions.
When Should You Call a Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney for a Halloween Accident?
If your child is injured while trick-or-treating or attending a Halloween event, seek immediate medical treatment for the injuries. Document the injuries and the accident scene by taking photographs and making a video. If a costume or other product caused the injury, keep the product secured with the packaging and instructions.
Your child could be entitled to compensation for damages, depending on the facts and circumstances. If a party negligently or intentionally caused the injury, they are liable under California personal injury laws. The best way to know whether you have grounds for a Halloween accident lawsuit is to talk with an experienced injury lawyer.
Call for a Free Consultation With Our Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney
If you or your child was injured in a Halloween accident, call our law firm to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney. We can help you seek compensation for your economic and non-economic damages.