Pedestrian Injuries On Halloween
One of the most popular activities on Halloween is trick or treating. Unfortunately, some people experience more than just wearing costumes and gathering candy from neighbors, as Halloween is a prime time for pedestrian accidents.
Trick or treating usually happens during rush hour, and many drivers might not be paying extra attention to all of the costumed children walking around the neighborhood. If drivers are distracted, they can easily miss seeing a child crossing the street, with devastating results. In addition, many adults attend Halloween parties of their own, and they may end up driving after having too much to drink. Impaired drivers greatly increase the chances of a pedestrian accident.
Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries, especially to children. Even with a costume, they have no protection from the impact with a vehicle, and some common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Internal injuries
- Broken or shattered bones
- Crush injuries
- Neck and back injuries
All of these injuries need immediate medical help, and they can disrupt a child’s life for weeks, months, or even long-term.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
While parents can never control the decisions of drivers to be distracted or impaired behind the wheel, they can take some steps to try to keep their children safe on Halloween:
- Trick or treat at homes on one side of the street first and then the other, which prevents zig-zagging and crossing the street multiple times
- Make yourselves visible with flashlights, glow sticks, or reflective clothing
DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS WITH A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER IN LOS ANGELES
If a pedestrian accident happens, you should contact a Los Angeles personal injury attorney at the Law Offices of Cohen & Cohen, P.C. as soon as possible. Call 818.347.2121 or contact us online to discuss your rights to compensation for free today.
