AAA: Don't let Halloween haunt you

AAA offers tips to stay safe this Halloween

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Here’s hoping for all treats and no tricks this Halloween! With more than 41 million children between ages 5 and 14 trick or treating on Oct. 31, it’s a busy night on the roads – and the worst night for vandalism.

AAA Western and Central New York is reminding everyone to be on the lookout for pedestrians this week, to celebrate responsibly, and to make sure your home is protected against any tricks.

There are some scary statistics when it comes to alcohol-related crashes on Halloween. AAA and the NHSTA found:

•During the Halloween holiday period (6 p.m. Oct. 31 to 5:59 a.m. Nov. 1) during the years 2013-17, 158 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes.

•On Halloween in 2013-17, 42% of people fatally injured in a traffic crash involved at least one drunk driver.

•In 2017, more than half of pedestrian fatalities on Halloween occurred with the pedestrian outside of a marked crosswalk.

•Nearly 80% of pedestrian fatalities on Halloween occurred after 6 p.m. in 2017.

Sometimes Halloween mischief can be harder to avoid.

“Property vandalism and injuries tend to spike on Halloween night,” said David Hodge, vice president of insurance for AAA Western and Central New York. “It’s important to make sure you’re covered for whatever might occur.”

Prepare for Pranksters

Vehicles are nearly twice as likely to be vandalized on Halloween as on an average day, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute. To avoid having your car egged or even stolen, park it in a secure garage or a safe, well-lit area. Double check that car doors are locked and windows are up.

Look Out for Black Cats, Blind Spots & Batman

Drive slowly and be on the lookout for creatures that can come out of nowhere. Turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances. Don’t hesitate to use your horn if you’re concerned trick-or-treaters don’t see you.

Light Up the Night

Generous lighting outside of your home keeps vandals away while providing safe passage to party guests and trick-or-treaters. Keep walkways and stairs clear of debris and make sure they’re well-lit.

Beware the Brew

Serve nonalcoholic beverages and food along with your preferred potion. Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party ends.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA provides nearly 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.