Most children look forward to Halloween all year. There are many ways children can be injured on Halloween, so parents must try to be prepared for known dangers. When injuries do occur, it is important to consult with an Mobile personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Alabama injury victims have important legal rights which must be protected.
Halloween Car Accidents
There are many unique factors which make Halloween a particularly dangerous time for car accidents. Just last year, three family members were killed on Halloween when a vehicle struck the flatbed truck they were riding in. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that several others were injured in the flatbed, which was carrying a large group of people dressed up for Halloween. The accident occurred in Chunky, Mississippi, just over the Alabama border. This tragic case reminds parents to use every standard vehicle safety protocol – such as wearing seatbelts or using booster seats – even on Halloween. Costumes can also make it more difficult for children to see traffic and other obstacles in the road. Make sure that your child’s mask, eyewear, and other accessories do not impair their ability to see ahead. Footwear should have traction and provide adequate support. Hem or trim any costumes that pose a tripping hazard.
Costume Dangers
Aside from possible tripping hazards, there are many other ways that costumes can pose dangers to children. Prop weapons can cause injuries if they are not designed safely. Many costumes are made out of flammable material. Masks can obstruct breathing. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using safer alternatives to masks, such as non-toxic makeup and decorative hats.
When negligent design or manufacturing causes a product to injure a child, that child has the legal right to be compensated for his or her injuries and losses. This compensation can be obtained from the manufacturer, distributor, retailer, and anyone else responsible for placing the dangerous item in the “stream of commerce” that put it in the hands of a child. Manufacturers of products which are specifically designed for children – such as costumes, toys, candy, and other Halloween goods – are held to a particularly high standard of safety.
Pumpkin Hazards
Children should never be allowed to use sharp knives to carve pumpkins. If an older child is able to safely use a knife, they should still be closely supervised by an adult. Consider lighting up your jack-o-lantern with a flashlight, glow stick, or LED battery-powered candle instead of the open flame of a traditional candle. Pumpkins that are smashed or spoiled can be a slip or trip hazard for pedestrians, bikes, and even cars passing over them. Make sure that all pumpkins are promptly picked up and disposed of after October 31st.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a Halloween accident, make sure to consult with an experienced Mobile personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Not only do you have the legal right to be compensated for your injuries and losses, but it is also important to hold negligent persons responsible for their conduct, so that other innocent victims are not injured in the future.