The end of August means back to school in many parts of the country. It also means an increase in vehicular and pedestrian traffic in many areas. Twenty-three million students in the United States ride a school bus to and from school every day. And according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 139 fatalities occur each year involving school transportation-related crashes.
Here are some rules to remember to keep the road safe for everyone, especially when school is back in session:
- Never pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
- Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop; if you are see the lights, you should slow down and prepare to stop.
- Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm indicate that the bus is stopped and that children are getting on or off; you must stop when the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
- The area 10 feet around a school bus is the highest risk for children being hit by other vehicles, so stop your vehicle further than that to allow space for children to enter or exist.
- Be aware that school zones have slower speed limits during arrival and dismissal times and that these limits are often strictly enforced.
- Drive slowly and watch for children walking or biking to school, especially in areas where there are no sidewalks.
- Be cautious around crosswalks and obey crossing guards; remember, pedestrians have the right of way.
- Never assume that a pedestrian, especially a child, sees your vehicle; some children may walk out into the street or intersection without looking – especially if they are distracted or running late.
