September is here and that means school is back in session in most areas. Children will be flocking to bus stops and the roads will be crowded with yellow school buses. To ensure everyone’s safety, you will need to stay vigilant to avoid a road accident, especially in school zones. There’s a lot to consider and that’s what this guide is for. Read on to learn what it takes to make back-to-school season safe and happy.
Guidelines for Drivers
As a driver, there are a number of things you can do to keep school kids safe. Here are some recommendations:
- Avoid Distracted Driving: Avoid using the phone for texts and calls while driving. Turn down the radio and stay focused and alert on the road.
- Never Block a Crosswalk: When you see a red signal, stop before the crosswalk so the kids on foot may use it safety to cross the road.
- Observe the Speed Limit: Be sure to drive slow when near bus stops and in school zones.
- Don’t Participate in Road Rage: No matter how late you are for work, avoid speeding and stay calm behind the wheel. Be especially careful around yellow school buses.
- Never Pass a School Bus if it Has Lights on: Such an action is considered illegal and it can put the lives of school children in danger. Follow the flashing lights and watch out for the kids getting on or off the school bus.
Guidelines for Parents to Share with Kids
As a parent, you can create certain rules for your children to follow to ensure back to school safety. Here are the key guidelines:
- Make Sure They Leave on Time: Make sure that your kids leave with lots of time to get to the bus stop. If they are late, they might get an urge to run which could prove to be dangerous.
- Have Them Cross the Street Carefully: If your kids must cross the street in order to get to the school bus, make sure they know to always look both ways before entering the crosswalk.
- If They Drop Something on the Road, Don’t Pick it Up: Instead, instruct them to ask you or the bus driver to retrieve it.
- Stay Inside the Bus at All Times: Instruct your kids to keep their heads, arms, and hands inside the school bus at all times.
- Follow the Instructions of the Bus Driver: Make sure your child knows to listen and follow the directions of the bus driver as they are simply trying to keep them safe.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Personal Injury Attorneys located in Fairfax and licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland and in the District of Columbia
Back to school frenzy brings a lot of safety concerns every year for everyone in the community. As a parent and/or driver, it is your responsibility to ensure safety for kids on the road. If you or your loved one has been injured in an accident you may be entitled to compensation. Personal injury lawyers at Hilton & Somer, LLC have the experience and resources to fight for you and your rights. Schedule your free consultation today via our online contact form or by calling (703) 560-0700.
References
https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/school-safety/school-safety-home
https://www.nhtsa.gov/school-bus-safety/keeping-children-safe
