Texas Injury Lawyers Blog
Children are especially vulnerable on Halloween night.
Trick-or-Treat Safety Tips for Children in Texas
Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for kids. From dressing up as their favorite characters to collecting candy around the neighborhood, it’s a time filled with fun and adventure. But while children enjoy the thrill of trick-or-treating, Halloween also brings serious safety concerns. In fact, it’s considered one of the most dangerous holidays for young pedestrians.
To help your family stay safe without losing the fun, it’s important to understand the risks—and how to prevent them. This blog covers the most common Halloween hazards, key safety tips, and what to do if an accident occurs.
Why Halloween Increases Pedestrian Risks
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), children face a 43% higher risk of fatal pedestrian accidents on Halloween compared to other nights. The study, based on more than 40 years of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), found that child pedestrian deaths are nearly double the average rate on Halloween night.
Several factors contribute to this heightened danger:
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Visibility: Children are smaller and harder for drivers to see, especially when cars or decorations block sightlines.
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Unpredictable behavior: Kids may dart into the street without warning while running between houses.
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Dark costumes: Many Halloween outfits make children less visible at night.
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Limited vision: Masks and costume accessories can restrict what children see around them.
These risks are real—but with awareness and preparation, families can greatly reduce the chance of a serious accident.
Safety Tips for Halloween Night
Most Halloween-related pedestrian fatalities happen between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., with 6–7 p.m. being the most dangerous hour. The good news: parents and drivers can take simple steps to keep trick-or-treaters safe.
The Children’s Safety Network recommends the following precautions:
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Choose costumes made from flame-resistant materials.
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Add reflective tape or bright colors for better visibility.
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Avoid masks or long costumes that could limit vision or cause tripping.
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Equip kids with flashlights or glow sticks to help them see and be seen.
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Accompany children under 12 years old.
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Encourage kids to stay in groups and cross only at marked crosswalks or intersections.
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Teach them to look both ways before crossing and stay alert for vehicles backing out of driveways.
Even small actions like these can make a huge difference in keeping your child safe.
What Families Need to Know
Sometimes, despite every precaution, accidents still happen. If your child is injured while trick-or-treating, it’s important to understand your legal options.
In Texas, drivers have a duty of care to operate their vehicles safely and attentively—especially in neighborhoods filled with children. If a driver’s negligence (such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence) caused your child’s injuries, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation.
Navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially while caring for an injured child. A personal injury attorney can help investigate the case, determine liability, and ensure your family’s rights are protected every step of the way.
See Also:
Can I Sue the Driver if My Child Is Hit by a Car on Halloween?
Halloween Nightmare? Call Shaw.
No parent should have to see their child’s Halloween end in tragedy. If your loved one has been injured due to another person’s negligence anywhere in Texas, you could be entitled to compensation for:
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Ambulance Costs
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ER Treatment
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Surgeries
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Medical Bills
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Pain and Suffering
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Missed Work
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Wrongful Death
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And More
We can help you find out for free.
Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our personal injury attorneys.
No fees. No obligations. Just expert legal advice.
We look forward to serving you.
¹NIH on Pedestrian Fatalities Associated With Halloween in the United States