Get Prepared for Spooky Season

Halloween is just around the corner, and celebrating the joys and spooky fun of the season can be exciting. From dressing up in fun costumes and heading out for trick-or-treating around the neighborhood, to attending fall festivals, throwing a party with friends, and more, there’s so much to do. But you’ll want to make sure you’re enjoying the festivities safely and legally. To help, we’ve compiled some do’s and don’ts to make it easy. 

When you need a lawyer, we’re here. Our lawyers in Gainesville are experts in local laws, and we’ll guide you through the legal process from start to finish, no matter the season.

Trick-or-Treating

If you’re a homeowner, you should be aware of the possible liability if someone falls and hurts themselves on your property. This is true any time of year, but it’s something to pay particular attention to during Halloween because there may be more people on your property than usual during low-light hours. 

• Do: As a homeowner, do your part to keep children and parents safe. Be sure to remove potential hazards that someone could trip over or fall into. Remove unnecessary items from the yard, cover driveway channel drains, and identify culverts and other drop offs. If you don’t plan to offer candy to trick-or-treaters, ensure your porch light is turned off when neighborhood children will be participating. Post signage if you have a dog, too. 
• Do: If you’re a parent or chaperone of trick-or-treaters, watch out for any hazards that may be on the property. Warn children to stay away from dogs and other animals. 
• Do: Check candy for hazards before letting children consume it. 
• Do: If you’re driving through the neighborhood, watch out for children and parents who may be walking. 
• Don’t: Assume others will see something that may be unsafe. If you see something, say something. 
• Don’t: If you, your child, or a child you’re chaperoning gets hurt, don’t let it go. Seek medical attention and report any criminal activity to the police. 

Pranks

Pranks are a normal part of Halloween, right? Think again. While some pranks may be harmless, a prank that causes damage to property or to others is not. In fact, it can be a serious crime. If you are on the receiving end of a prank that causes damage to property or you or someone else, report it. Don’t brush it off because chances are it will cost you in the long run. 

If you are pranked, call the police to report it and then call Avera & Smith. Our lawyers will determine if you have a case and help guide you through the legal process. 

Parties

As an adult, parties can be one of the best parts of Halloween, whether you’re hosting or attending.

• Do: If you’re hosting, be aware that there are social host laws that can hold you accountable if an injury occurs at the party. These laws also apply if a guest drives drunk leaving the party. 
• Do: Make sure your guests depart safely. Encourage designated drivers and rideshares. 
• Do: If you need to drive in the evening hours, do be mindful of others who may be driving under the influence.
• Don’t: Let your guests drive under the influence of alcohol. This goes for you, too. 

If you’re charged with a DUI or any crime related to alcohol, call Gainesville’s best criminal defense attorneys for a free consultation. 

Know Your Surroundings

Knowing your surroundings is imperative, especially when caring for children. During Halloween, don’t assume that every house with a porch light on is safe. Before going out, do your homework. Check local sex offender databases and know if any are in your area and where they live. If there are any in your neighborhood, avoid those houses even if the porch light is on. If your children are old enough, include them in the conversation so they know why to stay away from those houses, during Halloween and any other time of year. 

Have Questions? We’re Here for You

Stay safe and ensure you’re acting within the law this spooky season. Follow these do’s and don’ts, but also use common sense. If you get hurt or incur damage to your property, give us a call. We’ll listen to you, determine if you have a case, and guide you through the legal process every step of the way. As Gainesville’s best personal injury and property lawyers, we’re on your side.