Now that school is back in session, traffic comes along with it. Mornings can be hectic with getting the kids to school and waiting in line for buses, kids on bikes, and what feels like a million other parents dropping off their kids. When you’re late to work, or your child is late to school, it might be tempting to just drop her off and speed away, but this creates a dangerous situation not only for your child but for other children around the area as well.
As difficult as it can be, the most important thing you can do when you are driving near a school is to slow down, especially before and after school. According to the National Safe Routes to School program, schools are the primary location where children are hit by cars. In addition, research conducted by the National Safety Council indicates that most children killed in bus-related incidents are between the ages of 4 to 7 and are walking. A bus-related accident includes being hit by a bus itself or by motorists illegally passing a stopped bus.
While each school will have its own specific drop-off procedures that you should be aware of, there are also some standard safety rules that generally apply to all school zones.
First, do not double park. Doing so can block visibility for passing vehicles and for children who may be stepping out into the street.
Second, do not drop your children off across the street from the school. This will require them to cross the middle of the street without the assistance of a crossing guard.
Third, never pass a bus with its stop sign extended or a vehicle stopped for pedestrians. Just because you cannot see the pedestrians, does not mean that they are not crossing up ahead.
Fourth, don’t block a crosswalk when waiting to turn or stopping at a red light. This forces pedestrians to go around the car and puts them in the path of traffic.
Finally, consider organizing a carpooling to school with one or more parents. This will help reduce the number of vehicles around the school property during busy times.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a vehicle-related accident, you need knowledgeable and experienced lawyers on your side. The attorneys at Alexander Law Group, LLP will provide a free case evaluation to discuss your rights. With convenient office locations in San Jose and San Francisco, our team stands by ready to help. Contact us at 888.777.1776 or visit our website at www.alexanderlaw.com to find out more.
