Halloween in New York City brings out some of the most memorable sights of the year. Children in costumes, decorated stoops, and crowded sidewalks create an atmosphere of excitement. But with so many people moving through the streets at the same time, the risk of accidents also grows. Trick-or-treaters share space with drivers, cyclists, and busy pedestrians, which means safety needs to be a priority.
Although Halloween should be fun, it is also one of the most accident-prone evenings on the calendar. A national safety study found that the risk of pedestrian injuries can be significantly higher on October 31. Below are practical tips that can help you avoid injury while trick-or-treating through the five boroughs.
Keep Costumes Bright and Visible
A great costume makes the night more exciting, but it should also help others see you clearly. Dark clothing blends into city streets, especially in areas with limited lighting. Adding reflective tape, glow sticks, or small lights to a child’s costume can make a huge difference. Anything that helps drivers and cyclists easily notice trick-or-treaters reduces the chance of a collision.
Masks can also limit visibility. Before heading out, have your child try on any masks at home to ensure their vision isn’t obstructed, allowing them to see their surroundings and the ground clearly. If their vision is blocked, consider replacing the mask with nontoxic face paint.
Choose Safer Walking Routes
Trick-or-treating often takes families into unfamiliar neighborhoods. Since traffic in New York varies from block to block, sticking to well-lit streets is one of the best ways to stay safe. Areas with wide sidewalks, fewer blind corners, and active foot traffic tend to be safer for children.
If your family plans to walk among apartment buildings, be cautious around lobby entrances where people enter and exit frequently. For those visiting brownstone neighborhoods, stay alert around stoops and steps that can become slippery with leaves or blocked by Halloween decorations.
Be Alert at Intersections
Crosswalks are one of the biggest danger zones on Halloween. Drivers may be distracted, ride-share vehicles may stop abruptly, and cyclists may move quickly through bike lanes. Teach children to look both ways and make eye contact with drivers before crossing, and to wait for the walk signal to turn green, even if the street looks clear.
It is also ideal if an adult can lead the group and guide children across the street. Kids often get excited and run toward the next house or display, which increases the chance of stepping into the street at the wrong time.
Avoid Distractions
Halloween brings crowded sidewalks, spooky decorations, and eye-catching costumes that can easily distract even the most careful pedestrians. These distractions increase the risk of tripping, slipping, or stepping into traffic. Remind children to pause and move to the side if they need to check their candy bag, adjust a costume, or take a quick look at something that caught their attention.
Adults should avoid distractions as well. Staying alert allows you to scan for bicycles, scooters, uneven pavement, and crowd movement that children may not notice in time.
Be Careful with Props and Candy Bags
Costume props such as swords, staffs, or long capes can become tripping hazards. Shortening costume pieces or choosing soft, flexible props reduces the risk of injury. Carrying heavy candy bags can also throw off a child’s balance, so choosing smaller bags or emptying candy into a backpack throughout the night can help.
Watch the Ground While Walking
New York sidewalks are anything but predictable. From uneven pavement and cracked concrete to scattered debris like decorations or leaves, these obstacles can easily lead to unexpected falls. Encourage children to watch where they step and slow down in crowded sections. Even simple precautions can prevent sprained ankles, cuts, bruises, and other injuries.
What to Do If an Injury Occurs
Despite taking precautions, accidents still happen. A fall caused by hazardous property conditions, a collision involving a distracted driver, or a poorly maintained walkway can lead to serious injuries.
If someone in your family is harmed during trick-or-treating, seek medical attention promptly. Be sure to also document the incident by taking photographs of the scene and gathering contact information from any witnesses. These details can be important if negligence played a role. After the incident, consult with a reputable personal injury lawyer to help you through the legalities of the case, which may include compensation for any injuries.
If someone in your household is hurt because another person failed to take proper care during trick-or-treating in New York City, you may have the right to pursue compensation. Contact Keith D. Silverstein & Associates P.C. today to speak with a New York personal injury attorney who can guide you through your legal options.
