Ray Johnson
Traffic Safety Tips for Back-to-School Season

August is here, bringing with it the joys and challenges of a new school year. As kids gear up with fresh notebooks and backpacks, parents juggle the excitement and occasional stress of the back-to-school routine.

This time of year also coincides with National Traffic Awareness Month, a crucial reminder of the increased road activity around schools and neighborhoods. Let’s delve into some key points to ensure that we all can navigate this time of year with safety in mind.

1. Watch for Kids on the Move

  • Kids will be crossing streets and biking to and from school frequently. Special attention is crucial near schools and in residential areas where kids might be darting across the road unexpectedly.
  • Slow down and be mindful of kids waiting to cross streets, as they might not always remember to watch for cars.

2. School Buses: Drive with Caution

  • Your vigilance is needed as school buses begin their rounds, making frequent stops to pick up and drop off students. Remember that it is illegal to pass a stopped school bus with its stop sign extended, as it indicates that children are boarding or leaving the bus.
  • Maintain a safe distance behind buses and be ready to stop at any time.

3. Navigating School Zones

  • School zones can get quite chaotic during drop-off and pick-up hours. Exercise patience and keep your attention sharp to protect both children and other drivers.
  • If possible, stagger your arrival time to avoid peak congestion and ensure a smoother drop-off or pick-up experience.

4. Be Patient with Student Drivers

  • Many students are new to driving and may be navigating roads for the first time. Allow them extra space and time to make safe driving decisions.
  • Your patience can go a long way in helping them gain confidence on the road.

5. Safety Talks for Kids

  • Parents, a conversation about road safety with your kids is crucial. Discuss the importance of using crosswalks, wearing helmets while biking, and avoiding distractions from phones or other devices while walking.

Remember, with just a bit of extra attention and care, we can significantly enhance safety this season. As the road becomes busier, let’s focus on setting a proper example and keeping safety at the forefront of our commutes.