AAA Chicago Urges Motorists to Stay Alert on Halloween

AURORA, Ill., Oct. 26, 2005 -- Halloween will once again bring goblins, princesses and superheroes trick-or-treating on neighborhood streets. It is one of the most festive nights of the year for children, but it also ranks among the most dangerous for young pedestrians.

"The fun and excitement of the night can easily cause children to forget about their safety," says AAA Chicago spokeswoman Beth Mosher. "Therefore it's up to motorists to slow down and watch carefully for any children that are out trick-or-treating. Extra caution will help to ensure that kids make it home safely this Halloween."

Children's risk of unintentional injuries greatly rises on Halloween, making it important for motorists to drive carefully and stay alert. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports Halloween is consistently one of the top three days for pedestrian injuries and fatalities. In addition, a study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), estimates that children are four times more likely to be hit by a motor vehicle on Halloween than any other day of the year.

To help reduce the risk for children during the Halloween holiday, AAA suggests these basic safety rules for motorists:

  -- Watch carefully for children crossing the street. Children may not be
     paying attention to traffic and might cross mid-block or between parked

     cars.
  -- Motorists should scan far ahead in traffic to watch for children and
     try to anticipate their actions.
  -- Watch your speed. Motorists should slow down as they drive through
     neighborhood areas, preferably five mph less than the posted speed
     limit.
  -- Watch for children in dark clothing. Children may be difficult to see
     if they are wearing dark costumes or masks.
  -- Pay attention to all traffic signs, signals and markings.

"Following these simple 'tricks' will ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone," Mosher added.

AAA Chicago will celebrate 100 years of service in 2006. Formed in 1906, AAA Chicago represents roadway interests for motorists and pedestrians and serves their leading advocate for various traffic safety and travel-related issues. For more information on high gas prices and money-saving tips, please visit our Web site at http://www.aaa.com/ or call us toll-free at 1-877-YOUR AAA (968-7222).

AAA Chicago offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG clubs belong to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization, with more than 48 million members in the United States and Canada.