Sharp rise in traffic fatalities seen when holiday falls on weekend

Denver, October 28 – Halloween is just around the corner, and this year’s calendar has it landing on a Friday—causing an expected rise in the number of partygoers and trick-or-treaters taking to the streets on Halloween night. AAA urges revelers both young and old to make advance plans to stay safe.

“With Halloween on a Friday this year, most festivities are expected to take place that evening, putting a large number of adult partygoers on the road the same night as trick-or-treaters,” said Wave Dreher, spokesperson for AAA Colorado. “When Halloween falls during the middle of the work week, parties and events are spread out over several days to include the weekend.”

Two out of three adults ages 18 to 24 plan to throw or attend a Halloween party this year, according to the National Retail Federation, and 93 percent of children are expected to go trick-or-treating, reports the National Confectioners Association.

“Unfortunately we also see a sharp rise in the number of motor vehicle fatalities nationwide on Halloween when it is on a weekend, so it’s critical for both motorists and pedestrians to take extra caution and make sure this is a safe and happy Halloween for everyone,” said Dreher.

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of motor vehicle fatalities on Halloween rises an average of 30 percent, to 151 deaths nationwide, when October 31 is on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Colorado has not had a Halloween motor vehicle fatality since 2004, when there were three deaths on the Sunday.

AAA’s suggestions for a safe Halloween:

Trick-or-Treaters & Parents

Select highly visible costumes. Look for light, bright and reflective costumes that make trick-or-treaters easy to see. Add reflective tape to costumes, treat buckets and bags to increase visibility.

Ensure costumes fit well. Have trick-or-treaters try on, walk and play in costumes and shoes in advance to check fit. Make sure nothing comes loose or might cause the child to trip. Check that wigs, masks or other accessories do not obstruct the child’s view.

Review safety precautions with children. Include traffic safety rules in the review. For example, stay on the sidewalk, cross the street at crosswalks, avoid walking in front of, behind or between parked cars and stop at driveways to make sure no vehicles are coming in and out.

Plan trick-or-treating route and supervision in advance. Avoid areas with heavy vehicle traffic and look for well-lit streets with sidewalks. Make arrangements for an adult or a responsible teen to accompany younger trick-or-treaters.

Get a flashlight with fresh batteries. A flashlight can help trick-or-treaters see and be seen, but it should never be directed at someone’s eyes, including those of passing motorists.

Adult partygoers

Have safe transportation options ready if intending to consume alcohol. Select a designated driver, ensure cab service or public transportation is available or plan for an overnight stay.

Plan travel routes carefully Halloween night. Try to avoid cutting through residential areas that will likely have a large number of trick-or-treaters.

AAA Colorado has more than 525,000 members in Colorado and is an advocate for safety and security for all travelers. As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides nearly 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services, as well as member-exclusive savings. AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.