Many drivers will be taking to the road this week, going trick-or-treating or off to haunted parties. With the rate of road accidents spiking on Halloween here are some tips from IAM RoadSmart to help drivers prepare:
- Keep an eye out for children. Many little children will be taking to the road on a sweet hunt. Although many will be accompanied by an adult it is also best to drive slowly in residential areas as children can be very unpredictable.
- Check the weather – if it’s wet and windy then looking out for cars will be the last thing on a soaked pedestrians mind as they rush from house to house.
- Dress accordingly. Some costumes such as masks can obstruct your vision. It is better to book a taxi rather than driving in a costume that is obstructing movements or vision.
- Make sure you have a designated driver if you are planning on drinking.
- Try to keep the noise down. If drivers are carrying passengers, it is vital to have full concentration on the road so make sure noise levels are kept to a minimum when out on the road.
IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman said: “Long flowing costumes and the little ones on a major sugar rush can be a recipe for disaster on the roads. No one wants to put a damper on the fun but just taking a few moments to check everyone is safe before you set off will ensure the evening is memorable for all the right reasons.”