RICHMOND, Va. — Whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot this Halloween weekend, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is reminding everyone that safety should be the top priority. With plenty of children and families expected to be trick-or-treating, it’s important for both motorists and pedestrians to stay alert and take precautions.
Halloween 2024, which fell on a Thursday, proved to be a busy and dangerous day on Virginia roads. Data shows there were 497 crashes, resulting in four fatalities and 29 serious injuries, on Halloween last year. That’s up from Halloween 2023, which fell on a Tuesday, when 393 crashes were reported, including two fatalities and 29 serious injuries. These numbers highlight why it’s important for everyone to pay attention and make smart choices on this occasion.
“With Halloween falling on a Friday this year, we know many people will be out having fun. Drivers should slow down in neighborhoods, watch for children darting between cars, and eliminate distractions. Families can help too—keep your little ghouls and goblins visible with reflective costumes or flashlights,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative.
To keep everyone safe, DMV encourages the following precautions:
For motorists:
- Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
- Stay below the posted speed limit and avoid passing other vehicles in residential areas.
- Watch for children dashing between vehicles.
- Never drink and drive. If you plan to celebrate with alcohol, arrange a safe ride.
For pedestrians:
- Do not assume the right-of-way when crossing the street because drivers may not see you.
- Stick to the sidewalk whenever possible. If there is no sidewalk, walk beside the road, facing traffic, to increase visibility.
- Attach reflective tape to costumes or candy bags and give each child a flashlight so drivers can see them.
For more Halloween safety tips, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/halloween-safety-tips.