As trick-or-treating begins, the number of pedestrian crashes increases.
Our Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer explains why so many injuries occur on Halloween Night
Halloween in Tampa can be a fun holiday for families and children of all ages. Unfortunately, it’s also a dangerous time for many people due to the high number of pedestrian accidents on Halloween in Tampa each year.
So just how dangerous is Halloween for pedestrians in Tampa and across Florida? Why do so many pedestrian accidents happen this time of year? What can be done to prevent Halloween pedestrian accidents? And what legal options are available for pedestrians injured on Halloween in Tampa? Our Pedestrian accident attorney at Armando Personal Injury Law explains.
How common are pedestrian accidents on Halloween?
The short answer is very common. Each year, Halloween accidents in Tampa and across Florida result in serious injuries and fatalities.
In particular, there were 2,600 accidents on Halloween in Florida in 2022, resulting in 137 serious injuries and 21 fatalities, according to Tampa Bay 28 News, based on data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). And many of those Halloween injuries and fatalities involved pedestrians.
“Historically, it's (Halloween’s) one of the deadliest nights for pedestrians,” Tampa Bay 28 News reported. “That's why officials are urging drivers and trick-or-treaters to take extra precautions this year.”
Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officials agreed. "Data shows that each year, as trick-or-treating begins, and it gets dark, the number of crashes involving pedestrians increases,” according to a Fox 35 News story quoting FHP officials about the dangers pedestrians face each year on Halloween in Florida.
Why do so many pedestrian accidents happen on Halloween in Florida?
There are many reasons for the high number of pedestrian accidents on Halloween in Tampa and throughout Florida. According to FLHSMV and FHP officials, some of the reasons why pedestrian injuries increase dramatically during Halloween include:
- More pedestrians, especially children, are walking at night on Halloween.
- Distracted drivers might not see children crossing the street or walking alongside the road until it’s too late.
- Speeding drivers often don’t have time to slow down to avoid hitting a trick-or-treater.
- Many children are walking in the dark on Halloween.
- Many drivers have not adjusted to the darker conditions earlier in late October. As a result, they might not see pedestrians or be tired due to reduced daylight.
- Alcohol consumption among adults is often higher on Halloween, resulting in drunk drivers hitting pedestrians.
What can people do to prevent Halloween pedestrian accidents?
The FLHSMV offers many Halloween safety tips and suggestions for children, adults, and drivers to prevent pedestrian accidents on Halloween. “It’s up to parents, care givers and motorists to take special care so that everyone has a safe and happy holiday,” according to the FLHSMV.
For motorists, these Halloween safety tips include:
- Stay alert when driving on Halloween.
- Slow down, especially in neighborhoods where many children trick-or-treat on Halloween.
- Be cautious and be prepared to encounter children walking alongside the street on Halloween.
For parents taking children trick-or-treating, such safety tips include:
- Wear bright clothing so drivers can see you.
- Make sure Halloween costumes don’t have any tripping hazards.
- Always use crosswalks when crossing the street.
What legal options exist for injured pedestrians on Halloween in Florida?
If you or your child is hit by a car while walking on Halloween in Florida, you often have several legal options available for obtaining the compensation you deserve for your injury-related expenses. Such options often include:
- File an injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- File a claim with your own insurance company, especially if the driver who hit you or your child does not have any insurance.
- Take legal action and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Other legal options may exist depending on the circumstances of your Halloween pedestrian accident. That’s why it’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible to learn more about your legal rights.
Why should I hire a Tampa pedestrian accident attorney?
Halloween pedestrian accidents might seem straightforward at first. But in many cases, they quickly turn into complicated legal battles. Sometimes, it’s because the driver who caused the accident denies doing anything wrong. Other times, it’s the insurance company that’s the problem.
Whatever the circumstances of your Halloween pedestrian accident, a Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer at our firm can help you every step of the way. We know what to do at Armando Personal Injury Law because we have been fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians in Tampa and throughout Hillsborough County for years.
Our case results show we know how to win tough legal cases, resulting in significant settlements and verdicts. That’s why injury victims rely on us when they need us most. Give your case the attention it deserves. Contact our law firm and schedule a free consultation with a Tampa pedestrian accident attorney you can count on in a crisis. We handle cases involving injured pedestrians throughout Florida.
“Great attorney! Relentless work going after our Insurance Company, highly recommend!” – Tori L., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐