As the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds drivers each fall, shorter days and Halloween festivities create an environment where accidents are more likely. The agency reported that in the last full reporting year, there were 2,892 crashes involving pedestrians, leading to 159 deaths. With children walking door to door in costumes, parents escorting them across darkened streets, and homeowners opening their properties to visitors, the potential for injury rises sharply. If you or a family member is hurt during Halloween activities, speaking with a Maryland accident attorney right away can help protect your rights.
Pedestrian Collisions During Trick-or-Treat Hours
One of the most significant risks each October is pedestrian crashes. MDOT warns that 78 percent of pedestrian fatalities nationwide occur in darkness, which coincides with peak trick-or-treating hours of 4 to 9 p.m. Drivers who speed, look at their phones, or fail to yield at crosswalks put children and parents in danger. In many cases, a vehicle has only seconds to stop once a child darts out from between parked cars.
When a negligent driver causes a pedestrian injury, a personal injury claim can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In the event of a fatal crash, surviving relatives may pursue a wrongful death case. These claims not only provide financial relief but also hold careless motorists accountable for the harm caused.
Slip and Fall Accidents on Residential Property
Halloween also brings a rise in premises liability claims. Homeowners decorate with inflatables, lights, cords, and props that can create trip hazards. Wet leaves, dim lighting, or uneven walkways add to the risk. If a property owner fails to correct these conditions or warn visitors, they may be legally responsible when a guest falls and suffers injury.
Slip and fall injuries may include broken bones, concussions, or back injuries. Victims can file claims to recover costs of treatment and compensation for long-term effects. Because trick-or-treaters are legally considered guests, homeowners owe a duty of reasonable care to keep the property safe.
Injuries Caused by Defective Costumes or Decorations
Another hazard comes from products used during Halloween. Costumes with flammable fabric, poorly designed masks that limit vision, or defective lighting equipment can cause harm. If a child is burned, trips due to a poorly made outfit, or suffers an injury from faulty decorations, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability law.
In these cases, victims may pursue damages against the company that produced or sold the defective item. Product claims require careful documentation of the product itself, medical records, and proof that the defect directly caused the injury. An attorney can coordinate expert analysis to support the claim.
Animal Attacks During Trick-or-Treating
Halloween night can also bring unexpected encounters with pets. With a stream of strangers approaching the door, dogs may become anxious or aggressive. A bite or attack can leave children with serious injuries and lasting trauma. Maryland law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, regardless of whether the animal had shown aggression before.
If you or your child is bitten, immediate medical treatment is vital, not only for the injury but also to prevent infection. Victims may then pursue compensation for medical costs, scarring, and emotional distress caused by the attack.
Bystander Injuries at Community Events
Halloween does not only involve trick-or-treating. Many neighborhoods and towns host parades, festivals, or “trunk-or-treat” gatherings. At these events, poorly controlled crowds, unsafe staging, or vehicle access to pedestrian areas can create serious dangers. If an event organizer fails to implement safety protocols, they may be liable when someone is injured.
Victims of event-related injuries may be able to file claims against municipalities, private organizations, or businesses that failed to ensure a safe environment. These cases often involve unique deadlines and notice requirements, making it essential to act quickly with legal assistance.
How Can You Protect Yourself and Your Family?
Halloween should be a time of celebration, not tragedy. Simple precautions can reduce risk:
- Drivers should slow down and avoid distractions when traveling through neighborhoods;
- Homeowners should clear walkways, provide lighting, and keep pets secure; and
- Parents should equip children with reflective gear and remind them to cross streets at crosswalks.
Despite these measures, negligence still leads to serious accidents each year. If you or your child is injured, you should not bear the financial burden of another party’s carelessness.
Halloween should be a time of celebration, not tragedy. Simple precautions can reduce risk:
- Drivers should slow down and avoid distractions when traveling through neighborhoods;
- Homeowners should clear walkways, provide lighting, and keep pets secure; and
- Parents should equip children with reflective gear and remind them to cross streets at crosswalks.
Despite these measures, negligence still leads to serious accidents each year. If you or your child is injured, you should not bear the financial burden of another party’s carelessness.
Speak with a Maryland Accident Lawyer Today
Halloween-related accidents bring unique legal questions about driver negligence, property hazards, defective products, or animal liability. Each case requires careful investigation to determine responsibility and secure fair compensation. The attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen have decades of experience representing Maryland injury victims and have recovered millions for clients across the state.
If your family has been affected by a pedestrian crash, slip and fall, or any other Halloween accident, call (800) 654-1949 today to schedule a free consultation. Our team is ready to review your case and help you pursue the recovery you deserve.