Halloween & Pedestrian Accidents

Halloween is an exciting time of year for children, but can unfortunately be cut short due to a pedestrian accident. The combination of bad weather, increased children on the street and dark costumes means that 240 people are injured in 620 crashes in the Lower Mainland alone on Halloween. To keep your children safe this year, ICBC recommends the following:

• Add reflective tape to their costume, shoes or bag to help them stand out against the dark road.
• Make sure any masks they’re wearing doesn’t hinder your child’s ability to see what’s going on around them.
• If they’re heading out for some trick-or-treating fun alone, help them plan a safe route ahead of time.
• Remind them not to use their cellphone or listen to their iPod while on the roads.
• Walk in groups to help drivers and others see you and your children. Make sure you have an appropriate number of adults to accompany the children.

This month, ICBC began their pedestrian safety campaign, as 46 percent of fatal pedestrian crashes occur in between October and January, when visibility is poor due to less daylight hours and rain. Without the protection of a vehicle in a collision, the injuries suffered can be more severe as a pedestrian. 70 percent of the 2,200 yearly pedestrian accidents in the Lower Mainland happen at intersections, when a driver may be distracted by the traffic around them.

As a driver, ICBC recommends paying extra attention by avoiding distractions while driving and to not focus solely on oncoming traffic. For pedestrians, avoiding dark clothing and cell phone usage while crossing the street, crossing only at marked crosswalks and remaining vigilant for left-turning drivers who may not have seen them.

Pedestrians who have been hit by a motor vehicle are often eligible for accident benefits from ICBC and can also make a personal injury claim against the driver and their insurance policy. If you or anyone you know have been injured in a pedestrian accident with a vehicle, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer to determine your legal rights. John Mickelson Law Corporation can help you acquire financial assistance and medical treatment. Our pedestrian accident lawyers have the experience needed to help you get properly compensated for your personal injury claim. Call us at (604) 684-0040 for a free consultation in our Vancouver, Surrey or Abbotsford offices.

 

Go back to Blog