With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, AAA is warning drivers, parents, and trick-or-treaters to take extra precautions as neighborhoods prepare for one of the busiest nights of the year.
AAA says the combination of children walking through neighborhoods, motorists traveling to Halloween parties, and an increasing number of people riding bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters could create dangerous conditions on roadways Saturday evening, October 31.
According to Safe Kids Worldwide, children are more than twice as likely to be struck and killed by a vehicle on Halloween than on any other day of the year.
The most popular trick-or-treating hours are between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m., when darkness and increased pedestrian activity can make it more difficult for drivers to spot children crossing streets.
AAA also points to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showing that 201 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes on Halloween night between 2020 and 2024.
“Halloween already demands a driver’s full attention, and having it fall on a Saturday night adds another reason to be especially cautious,” said Montrae Waiters, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Expect more people to be out after dark and slow down in neighborhoods. A child in a costume, or someone riding an e-bike or e-scooter, can appear in your path with very little warning.”
AAA is encouraging motorists to reduce their speed when traveling through residential areas and remain alert for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway or cross between parked vehicles.
Drivers should also pay close attention at intersections, driveways, alleys, and parking areas where visibility may be limited.
Motorists are reminded to eliminate distractions, including cell phone use, and carefully check around their vehicles before backing out of driveways or parking spaces.
AAA also stresses the importance of never driving while impaired. Anyone planning to consume alcohol during Halloween celebrations should arrange a designated driver or another safe transportation option.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to make sure children wear costumes that are easily visible to motorists. Reflective tape, glow sticks, and flashlights can help drivers see trick-or-treaters after dark.
Costumes should fit properly and should not obstruct a child’s vision or create a tripping hazard.
Children should use sidewalks and designated crosswalks whenever possible, look both ways before crossing streets, and avoid walking between parked vehicles.
AAA recommends that children younger than 12 be accompanied by an adult while trick-or-treating.
Another growing concern this Halloween involves e-bikes and e-scooters, which may be sharing crowded neighborhood streets with pedestrians and vehicles.
“A helmet may not be part of the costume, but it should be part of the ride,” Waiters said. “If you’re heading out on an e-bike or e-scooter, wear a properly fitted helmet and make sure drivers can see you.”
AAA advises riders to wear helmets, use appropriate lighting, avoid distractions, and make sure Halloween costumes do not interfere with their ability to safely operate their bikes or scooters.
Riders should also reduce their speed around pedestrians, follow traffic laws, and never operate an e-bike or e-scooter while impaired.
With Halloween celebrations expected across Northwest Georgia and the Chattanooga area Saturday night, AAA says a few extra precautions could help prevent a tragedy.
The organization reminds motorists that children can be unpredictable, particularly when excited about Halloween activities, and urges everyone traveling through neighborhoods to remain alert and exercise patience.
AAA says the goal is to make sure families can enjoy Halloween festivities and return home safely.