SANTA FE – New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) officials are urging extra caution this Halloween as children face two times the risk of being struck and killed by vehicles compared to other days, particularly concerning in a state that leads the nation in per-capita pedestrian fatalities.
“Halloween should be a night of fun, not tragedy,” said NMDOT Cabinet Secretary, Ricky Serna. “We’re asking drivers to slow down, stay alert, and watch for children who may be excited and harder to see after dark. He continued, “Every parent wants their child to come home safe after trick-or-treating. Whether you’re walking or driving, please take it slow, stay visible, and look out for one another.”
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), children are twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Lack of visibility and low lighting at night plays a factor in these incidents according to the NSC. Kids also have a greater risk of injury because they are small and have trouble judging distance and speeds.
This Halloween, motorists and pedestrians of all ages are encouraged to stay alert and follow simple safety practices as they navigate the streets and roadways.
Trick-or-Treaters:
-
- Bring glow sticks or a flashlight with extra batteries to see and be seen in the dark.
- Put reflective tape on clothes, costumes, and trick-or-treat bags to make them more visible to passing motorists.
- If available, use the sidewalk, otherwise, walk on the shoulder facing traffic.
- Cross the street at a crosswalk or intersections and never cross the street from between parked cars.
- Pay attention and stay off your phone.
- Distracted walking can be as hazardous as distracted driving so watch where you are going.
Motorists:
-
- Put down your phone.
- Be cautious and stay alert to reduce the risk of getting into a crash.
- Enter and exit driveways carefully.
- Pay attention to the speed limit and drive slower when you are around pedestrians.
- Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, they may be stopped for a pedestrian.
- Properly secure children in their car seats, booster seats, and seat belts when transporting them, and make sure their costumes don’t interfere with the restraint.
- Do not drive under the influence.
Media Contact:
Kristine Mihelcic, kristine.mihelcic@dot.nm.gov