With Halloween here, road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers and trick-or-treaters to exercise extra caution. With the clocks having gone back, darkness will descend earlier, heightening the risks for all road users.
Research from the United States, where trick-or-treating has long been a popular tradition, reveals that children are three times more likely to be struck by a vehicle on Halloween compared to any other day. Alarmingly, more children also lose their lives in car accidents on this night than on any other occasion throughout the year.
The darker evenings make it increasingly difficult for drivers to spot children, particularly those in dark costumes and possibly unsupervised, warns GEM. James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, emphasises the need for vigilance: “Rain or shine, young trick-or-treaters will be out in force on Thursday. We urge drivers to be on the lookout for children who may be preoccupied with collecting sweets, often at the expense of their own safety.”
Luckhurst advises drivers to anticipate the presence of little ghouls and ghosts on the roads, encouraging everyone to take a proactive approach to safety. “As drivers, our main source of information for safe driving is what we see. By expecting trick-or-treaters, we can significantly reduce the risks for everyone around us.”
To enhance road safety this Halloween and beyond, GEM has compiled some essential tips for drivers:
- Be prepared for children to unexpectedly step into the street; slow down and be ready to stop.
- Maintain full focus on the road at all times, avoiding any distractions.
- Clear your lights, windows, and mirrors of any obstructions like dirt or condensation.
- In foggy or wet conditions, reduce speed and use dipped headlights.
- Be mindful of glare from the low winter sun, which can impair visibility.
- Don’t delay in switching on your lights, especially if driving a dark-coloured vehicle, as it enhances visibility for others.
By following these guidelines, drivers can contribute to a safer Halloween for everyone.
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