Halloween is a time for family fun, but it can also be dangerous if the right precautions aren’t taken. Whether you’re out trick-or-treating or attending a party, it’s important to follow personal protection tips to keep you and your family safe.

• Costume Safety: If you’re out at night, add reflective tape, glow sticks, or flashlights to make yourself visible. Make sure that costumes are well-fitted to prevent falls and avoid masks or headwear that obstruct vision.

• Pedestrian Safety: Be sure to use caution while walking or driving. Pedestrian accidents increase on Halloween night due to the amount of people on the roads. Always use crosswalks, avoid distractions, and look both ways before crossing the street.

• Property Hazards: Homeowners should ensure their properties are well-lit and free from tripping hazards such as garden hoses or uneven sidewalks. If you have a long walkway or driveway, consider handing out candy closer to the road so that trick-or-treaters don’t have to take the walk up to your front door. A slip and fall on someone’s property can lead to serious injuries and can result in a legal claim against the homeowner.

Understanding Maryland Premises Liability Law

In Maryland, a Halloween premises liability claim may arise if a dangerous condition on a property causes an injury to a visitor, and the property owner’s negligence led to the condition. To succeed, the injured party must prove the property owner had a duty of care, failed to exercise reasonable care to keep the property safe, and this failure caused the injury.

What to Do If You Experience An Injury on Halloween

• Seek Medical Attention: Get immediate medical care for your injuries.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the hazard that caused the accident.
• Gather Evidence: Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Report the Incident: Inform the property owner or manager and get a copy of any incident report.
• Contact O’Brien Law: Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney at O’Brien Law to discuss your case and understand your legal options.