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Can you believe we're already gearing up for school again? Before the rush begins, here's a moment to remember to stay safe while driving.
In this blog, you’ll get important advice to make sure you stay secure when you’re driving to school.
Slow Down and Stay Alert
Our first topic? Taking it easy on the gas. Slow and steady wins the race when driving in school zones. Even during non-school hours, it's crucial to remember to slow down¹. As per the AAA, speed limits in school zones are reduced for a reason.
In fact, if a car is going 30 mph and hits someone walking — the person's chances of surviving are 20%. Always remember, patience is virtue number one on the road.
Know Your School Zones
Knowing your school zones can save lives. It's as simple as that. Familiarize yourself with the school zones on your daily commute and be watchful for school zone signs. Nearly one third of child pedestrian fatalities occurred between 3pm and 7pm.
Avoid Distractions
We all know that distracted driving is dangerous, but the stats show this in sobering reality. In 2020, 3,142 lives were lost to distracted driving, a staggering figure. Schools often lie in residential areas, marked by the hustle and bustle of pedestrians, children playing, and pets.
Parking Etiquette
While finding a parking spot around school zones during rush hour seems like finding a needle in a haystack, double parking is a no-go. Studies show that adolescents (10-19 years old) have a higher than average risk of injury than other aged pedestrians. We can help reduce this risk significantly by maintaining visibility on the road.
Yield to Pedestrians
As drivers, it's our duty to stop when the yellow flashers are blinking. According to NHTSA reports, about 18% of children aged 14 and younger killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians. So, let's pledge to yield to pedestrians crossing intersections. It might eat a few extra seconds of our time, but it's unquestionably worth it!
Be Ready for Traffic
Drop-off and pickup times can be peak commute times. Be ready for traffic and manage your schedules accordingly. According to INRIX 2017 Traffic Scorecard, cities like Los Angeles and New York can see increased traffic of 12% and 13% respectively during these times. The earlier we're out, the better chances we have at beating the rush.
Final Thoughts
As we end this thorough guide on driving safely for the back-to-school season, let's remember that we all have a part in this. Each of us plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of children, pedestrians, and fellow drivers during the school commute. By being aware, waiting our turn, and being polite, we can do a lot to make the streets safer.
Let's collectively prioritize safety as we get Back to School ready! Happy driving!
Sound Off
How are you going to make sure that you drive safely during this busy back-to-school season?
I will make sure to watch out for school zones and pedestrians.
When driving, I would be more aware of people around me, knowing they would always have the right of way.
I will be more aware of the pedestrian around so there it’s an accident
When driving to school, or around schools I will make sure to be more alert for pedestrians and drive at the speed recommend in these zones.
As it is know the school season, when I start driving myself and sisters to school I will make sure I follow the tips above and be alert and slow to make sure I and pedestrians are safe