Summer is winding down, which means children will be going back to school and school zones will be filled with traffic during the weekdays. A few driving tips to keep kids safe during back-to-school season include:
- Be careful around buses: Any time you are driving behind a bus, be very careful to keep plenty of distance between you and the bus and drive at a safe speed. Pay special attention to the retractable stop sign and warning lights and never pass a bus that is pulled over to drop off or pick up children.
- Change your route: The best way to avoid an accident in a school zone is not to drive near the zone at all. If you can manage by driving along a different route, do so, especially if your travel would normally take you past a school zone during drop-off and pick-up times. You may also choose to travel during different times of the day.
- Avoid drop-off mistakes: One mistake parents make when dropping off or picking up children is parking on the opposite side of the street, requiring the child to step away from the safety of the sidewalk. Park on the same side as the school whenever possible. Another drop-off mistake to avoid is double parking. This can disrupt the sightlines of bus drivers and other parents, putting children at risk.
- Stay off your phones: This tip is useful for adults, but also one parents should share with children. Walking in a school zone while using a cell phone distracts children from potential dangers and can result in serious injuries. Drivers should never use their cell phones while operating a motor vehicle. Whether driving or walking, that text, email or post can wait.
Informed drivers are safe drivers and we hope back-to-school season is a successful and safe one for you and your children.