Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Pedestrian safety

Since It’s Halloween, Watch for Kids When Driving

Halloween tips from DOT.

301660341_08857b81db.jpgFor Kids1. Kids 10 and under should trick-or-treat with a trusted adult2. Only trick-or-treat in familiar areas that are well lit3. Cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks4. Look left, right and left again when crossing; always walk, don't run, when crossing streets5. Make eye contact with drivers and watch for cars that are turning or backing up6. Walk on sidewalks or paths; if there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible7. Never dart out into the street or cross in between parked cars8. Wear light-colored, flame-retardant, costumes decorated with retro-reflective tape or stickers9. Wear well-fitting, sturdy shoes to prevent trips and falls10. Carry a flashlight or glow stick to increase visibility to drivers11. Wear face paint and makeup; a mask can restrict a child's vision

For Motorists12. Be especially alert in residential neighborhoods13. Drive more slowly and anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic on and near the road14. Be sure to drive with your full headlights on so you can spot children from greater distances15. Take extra time to actively look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs16. Remember that costumes can limit children's visibility and they may not be able to see your vehicle17. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully18. Remember that children are excited on this night and may move in unpredictable ways19. Remember that popular trick-or-treating hours are during the typical rush-hour period, between 5:30-9:30 p.m.20. Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and pedestrians

Photo: Andy.Schultz/Flickr 

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

F150 Driver Kills Cyclist in Queens

The carnage continues in the World's Borough.

January 20, 2026

Central Park Changes Have Eased Crossings for Pedestrians, New Data Shows

Pedestrians are waiting less time to cross the bustling six-mile loop after the city shortened crossing distances and replaced "stop" lights with yellow "yield" signals.

January 20, 2026

Memo to Mamdani: Rescind Central Park’s New 15-MPH Bike Speed Limit

The lower speed limit misapplies state law and sets a troubling precedent for cycling in New York City.

January 20, 2026

Tuesday’s Headlines: ‘Upstate Resident’ Edition

The New York Post should be embarrassed. But then, it wouldn't be the Post. Plus other news.

January 20, 2026

MLK Day Headlines: Transit Dignity Edition

Honoring The Dream, plus other news.

January 19, 2026
See all posts