It’s often one of the scariest days of the year on metro Atlanta roads. Halloween traffic can leave drivers feeling tricked long before they make it home for the treats.
That’s because parents all over town hope to return from work in time to get little ones ready for an evening of trick-or-treating. And that will clog up the roads quickly, according to the WSB 24-hour Traffic Center. Plus, this year’s Halloween holiday falls on Thursday, already the busiest day for evening commuters, according to the traffic center.
However, it doesn’t have to be a frightening commute: Experts advise planning ahead to make it home safely.
“If parents can get home just after the buses drop students off, everyone will have plenty of time to get those costumes just right and the candy bowls filled up!” Ashley Frasca, WSB traffic reporter, told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Early Thursday afternoon, traffic was flowing through town except for a few typical crashes. By later in the afternoon, traffic was much heavier through town, according to the traffic center.
The Georgia Department of Transportation anticipates heavy traffic on metro Atlanta interstates until 7 p.m., with travelers advised to allow an additional 30 to 45 minutes per trip. Those projections are based on historical Halloween travel data, the agency said.
That could be longer depending on the route. A particular hot spot for congestion is expected to be I-285 westbound at Ga. 400 and I-285 southbound at I-20 west, GDOT said.
Commuters with the Peach Pass should take advantage of it, Frasca said.
Drivers should remain cautious as they navigate neighborhoods and on side streets, the traffic experts advise. There will likely be more pedestrians than normal out, and Halloween is a particularly deadly day on the roads for children, according to AAA Auto Club Group.
“Little ones tend to head out to trick-or-treat much earlier, so drive with extra caution in and around neighborhoods,” Frasca said. “The roads and pedestrians along them deserve your full attention. Please don’t drive distracted.”
The American Red Cross also has reminders for trick-or-treaters. Safety may not be on the minds of excited kids, experts advise.
Adults and children should remember to walk on sidewalks, the Red Cross suggests. If there are no sidewalks, walk along the edge of the road facing traffic. Look both way before crossing the street.
Tune in to 95.5 WSB for continuous traffic updates throughout the day.
Halloween safety tips
For drivers
- Be alert for trick-or-treaters and other pedestrians.
- Slow down and scan the road. Slower speeds save lives.
- Watch for young trick-or-treaters in unexpected places.
- If you see a drunken driver, contact law enforcement.
For pedestrians
- Create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone.
- Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- If possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions.
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
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