Back-to-School Safety Tips for Drivers

With the end of summer fast approaching, and children going back to school, it is more important than ever to think about driving safely around school zones.

According to a recent study by Safe Kids Worldwide, approximately 100 children in the United States are killed every year while walking to or from school, and 25,000 others sustain injuries as a result of school zone crashes. And according to research by the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are 4 to 7 years old, and they’re walking.

Here are a few tips when sharing the road with young pedestrians:

• Adjust your route to avoid school zones
• Don’t block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic
• Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign
• Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas
• Don’t honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way
• Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians, especially a school bus
• Always use extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians wherever they may be, no matter who has the right of way

At Elsner Law Firm, we see the devastating impacts a road accident can have on an individual and their loved ones, and we’re passionate advocates for the safety of all road users.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, our lawyers can guide you through the legal process and help you bring a claim. Contact Elsner Law Firm for a free consultation today.