Georgia Injury Law Blog
Two children were severely injured in Sacramento on Halloween night 2025. The children were out trick or treating a little before 9 p.m. when a vehicle struck them. They were taken to the local hospital in critical condition.
For parents of young children, that is one of the worst outcomes from a Halloween night out. Halloween is just around the corner, and families throughout the country are buying candy and making costumes. While preparing for the holiday, parents should also consider how to keep their children safe while trick or treating.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on Halloween evening there are four times as many deaths among pedestrians aged 5-14 than on any other evening. Several risk factors play into this rate. The total number of pedestrians is much higher than normal, with far more children pedestrians than is typical. Unaccompanied children may dart suddenly into roadways, and small children may not be visible when directly in front of very large vehicles. Children in costumes may have their vision obstructed, especially if they are wearing masks. There are also more motorists driving to parties and other Halloween events. Given the time of year, the sun also goes down early, and much of the activity occurs after dark.
To assist parents and motorists, Consumer Reports recommends the following tips for parents:
- Walk with your children if they are under the age of 12, and show them safe places to cross the street.
- Have children carry a glow stick or flashlight to help them be seen by drivers.
- Instruct children to walk in the direction facing traffic if there are no sidewalks available
- Only visit homes with a porch light on, and never enter a stranger’s house.
- Avoid costumes that make it difficult for children to see. Be particularly careful about using masks and head gear.
- Go trick or treating before it gets dark, especially for young children.
- Use light colored clothing for costumes or add reflective material to the front and back.
Motorists in turn should use extra care when driving on Halloween, especially in residential neighborhoods. Avoid using any distractions while driving such as talking on the phone or sending text messages. Do not pass stopped vehicles, which might be dropping off children or stopping for pedestrians. Yield to any pedestrians, as children may not see you before they dart into the street. Turn on your headlights even during the daylight to help children see your vehicle. Crucially, always drive sober, and use a designated driver for parties and events.
The Atlanta personal injury lawyers at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers are dedicated to the representation of pedestrians who have suffered injuries due to motor vehicle accidents in the metro Atlanta region and across the state of Georgia. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries due to being struck by a motor vehicle, talk to a lawyer at our firm, and discuss your legal options for a claim for damages. You may qualify for compensation that includes medical expenses, lost income and other forms of damages. Please click here to contact our law firm and discuss your case. Initial consultations are free.