Halloween will once again bring goblins, princesses and superheroes trick-or-treating on neighborhood streets. It is one of the most festive nights of the year for children, but it also ranks among the most dangerous for young pedestrians.

Children's risk of unintentional injuries greatly rises on Halloween, making it important for motorists to drive carefully and stay alert. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports Halloween is consistently one of the top three days for pedestrian injuries and fatalities. In addition, a study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), estimates that children are four times more likely to be hit by a motor vehicle on Halloween than any other day of the year.

To help reduce the risk for children during the Halloween holiday, AAA suggests these basic safety rules for motorists:

 -- Watch carefully for children crossing the street. Children may not be
    paying attention to traffic and might cross mid-block or between parked

    cars.
 -- Motorists should scan far ahead in traffic to watch for children and
    try to anticipate their actions.
 -- Watch your speed. Motorists should slow down as they drive through
    neighborhood areas, preferably five mph less than the posted speed
    limit.
 -- Watch for children in dark clothing. Children may be difficult to see
    if they are wearing dark costumes or masks.
 -- Pay attention to all traffic signs, signals and markings.