August is just around the corner, which means it’s almost the end of summer and the start of the new school year! It’s also the time of the year when traffic gets heavier. School buses are back, students are walking, biking, and driving to school, and public transit is in full swing. Because roads will be busier, it’s crucial to be extra mindful.
Here are some back-to-school tips to help keep everyone safe.
Bus Riders
School buses are safer than regular passenger vehicles, but parents should still educate their children on proper behavior inside and outside the bus. Remind kids of the following rules:
● Never run to or from the bus stop.
● Be wary of the danger zone because the bus driver can’t see you. The danger zone is any area where you’re close enough to touch the bus.
● If you’re crossing the street to get to the school bus, wait for the bus driver’s signal.
● Take your seat immediately once you’re inside the bus and always face forward.
● Never play or fight outside or inside the bus.
● Don’t push others when alighting from the bus.
Drivers
Every state observes the stop-arm law to protect children from motorists. Drivers who fail to obey it endanger children and can face misdemeanor charges. Here are three simple rules drivers must remember to prevent school bus-related accidents:
● If a school bus is flashing yellow lights, it’s preparing to stop. Drivers should immediately slow down because children will be waiting to get on or off the bus. There might also be parents in the area who are assisting or waiting for their children.
● If a school bus is flashing red lights, it means that children are boarding or getting off. Drivers must stop and leave at least twenty feet between themselves and the bus. Only continue driving when the school bus turns off the red flashing light and starts moving.
● Be careful even if there are no flashing lights. Pay attention as you reverse out of the driveway and drive through neighborhoods, bus stops, and school zones. Watch for darting children.
Cyclists
Since the pandemic, cycling has increased in popularity as a fun way to get exercise. Now that on-campus classes are back in session, many students use their bikes as a fast and easy way to get to school. Parents should educate their children on bike safety and remind them of the following:
● Always wear a helmet that fits you correctly, and keep the chin strap fastened.
● Stay inside the bike lane, don’t go against the traffic flow, and follow traffic signs.
● Watch out for obstacles that can cause you to fall, like potholes, rocks, and train tracks.
● Keep your eyes on the road and hide your gadgets and other distractions.
Pedestrians
Whatever their chosen mode of transportation, all children become pedestrians at some point in the day. Children under ten years tend to be impulsive and still need their parents’ supervision as they cross the road or walk near traffic. Older children’s parents must teach them pedestrian safety habits, including the following:
● Use the sidewalk at all times. But if there’s no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing traffic.
● Use marked crosswalks whenever they are available and look both ways before crossing.
● Never play with your friends or push each other around when walking near traffic.
● Put your phone away and focus on where you’re going.
The Bottom Line
Road safety is a joint responsibility. Everyone should be extra cautious now that children are heading back to school. Whether you’re a bus driver, parent, or cyclist, do your part to protect those around you. For more information, contact Friedman Law Offices at +1 800-876-1093.