Navigating Road Safety as Schools Starts

As summer break fades away, parents and children across the nation are gearing up for the new school year. This time of year is filled with excitement for students, but it also brings a spike in traffic around schools and neighborhoods. With more children walking, biking, and being driven to school, prioritizing road safety is crucial.

A school zone with children crossing safely

When driving in school zones, it is vital to stay focused. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 100 children die each year in school-related accidents. Be prepared to stop for children who may suddenly cross the street.

Always observe posted speed limits, which can drop to 15-25 mph during school hours to enhance safety.

Distractions can be dangerous, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), texting or using a phone while driving increases the risk of crash involvement by 23 times. It also happens to be illegal in Missouri. Keep your phone out of reach and focus fully on the road to stay safe.

Always give the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks. Children may not always notice nearby vehicles, so drivers must take extra precautions. If a crossing guard is present, follow their instructions closely.

Take the time to teach your children about road safety. Explain the importance of looking both ways before crossing streets and using crosswalks when available. A survey showed that children who learn these practices are 40% less likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents.

Discuss the dangers of playing near roads and reinforce the importance of staying alert while walking or biking.

Children often mimic the behaviors they see. Follow traffic rules and display safe behaviors around them. For instance, when walking with your child, hold their hand and point out safe places to cross.

Map out safe routes for your children before school begins. If they walk or bike, choose paths that are well-lit and have less traffic. A study revealed that 60% of children favor walking to school if it feels safe. If they will take the bus, ensure they know where the bus stop is and how to stay safe while waiting.

For students, being aware of surroundings while walking or biking to school is vital. Avoid using headphones or being glued to your phone, as these distractions can prevent you from noticing cars and other hazards. Always keep an eye out for vehicles and fellow pedestrians.

Obey all traffic signs and signals. Wait for the pedestrian signal before crossing the street and always look both ways. If biking, follow vehicle rules and use hand signals when turning, which can reduce the likelihood of accidents.

When walking or biking, always stick to designated paths or sidewalks. If sidewalks are not available, walk facing oncoming traffic. This practice allows you to see vehicles approaching, increasing your safety.

As schools reopen, everyone—drivers, parents, and students—must prioritize road safety. By being vigilant, following traffic regulations, and educating one another, we can create a safer environment for our children.

Let’s come together to ensure that the start of the school year is not only exciting but also safe for everyone in the community.

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