Halloween is around the corner, and many people are picking out costumes and planning their families’ trick-or-treat route. While Halloween can be full of fun, creativity, and laughter, accidents can occur because of negligence. In this article, we discuss common negligence-based accidents and injuries that occur on Halloween.
Slip (or Trip) & Fall Accidents
Unfortunately, slip and fall accidents are not uncommon during Halloween. Because of a long cape or vision-impairing mask, decorations, uneven pavement, or other factors, a person can suffer injuries, such as:
- Bruises
- Lacerations
- Broken bones or severe sprains and fractures
- Soft tissue injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Homeowners should inspect their property before and after decorating. If you notice uneven pavement or other hazards on your property, consider either addressing the before trick-or-treaters are traipsing around your property or adding warning signs around the property. You can be held liable if a person suffers injuries on your property.
If you plan to trick-or-treat or attend an event, you should also be mindful of your costume choices. You can be held partially at fault if your costume contributed to your fall, and your damages can be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Pedestrian Accidents
Traffic accidents, especially pedestrian accidents, often occur on Halloween. Drivers may not notice pedestrians who are in dark costumes or may be driving recklessly or while under the influence. While drivers should be mindful of their speed and drive with extra caution, people walking should consider wearing reflectors and taking precautions as well. Pedestrians and drivers can suffer any number of injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Lacerations
- Bruises and fractures
- Broken bones
Haunted House Accidents
Haunted houses are a staple feature of the Halloween season, and the actors and house aren’t the things that can inspire fear. Attendees should also be wary of poorly-lit walkways, moving structures, and other hazards that can lead to serious accidents. People often suffer injuries in a slip-and-fall accident but also be injured by running crowds, faulty equipment/machinery, or negligent security-related incidents.
Haunted house owners and operators owe patrons a duty of care and should take precautions to protect them. Whether you have signs that warn guests about flashing lights or poorly lit areas, you should take steps to warn guests of potential hazards.
Pumpkin Carving Accidents
Pumpkin carving can be a very fun fall and/or Halloween activity. However, carving can prove to be dangerous in certain situations. Pumpkin carving can lead to any number of injuries, including:
- Deep cuts or gashes
- Severed tendons
- Fractured bones
- Loss of extremities
- Burns
If you or a loved one are injured while carving a pumpkin at a patch or business, the business owner may be held liable for your injuries if they were negligent. Before and during the carving, you should be given clear instructions and safety warnings about using knives or other equipment to carve your pumpkin. You might also suffer burns or fire-related injuries if someone’s lit pumpkin is not properly displayed or moved a sufficient distance from walkways.
If you or a loved one suffer injuries on Halloween due to negligence, contact Michael Doyle, Attorney at Law to discuss your legal rights and options. Call (505) 219-2176 today to schedule an initial consultation.