As the school year kicks off, students will begin getting in the routine of their daily commutes. With more students and families on the road, there is more responsibility there is for people driving. Students use all types of modes of transportations to get to school, whether it be walking or rolling, this means more people crossing the street, using bike lanes, and using sidewalks. People driving must pay extra attention, especially in school zones and during pick-up and drop-off hours.
Speed drastically impacts the survivability of a collision between a car and a person walking or rolling. Research suggests that for every mile per hour (mph) a car is moving, the risk of a pedestrian death jumps dramatically. At 42 mph, the odds of a fatality rise by 40% compared to 23 mph. Higher speeds shorten reaction time and increase the distance needed to come to a complete stop, making accidents both more likely and more deadly.
Top safety tips for school zones
- Drive slowly in school zones, no matter what time it is and no matter what lights are or are not flashing, because children could be present at various times in schools zones
- Eliminate distractions. Keep phones away and keep eyes on the road. Students may be unpredictable around the road.
- Respect crosswalks and crossing guards. Blocked crosswalks force children into traffic. Always stop when crossing guards signal.
- Know school bus laws. Passing a stopped school bus is illegal and deadly. Always stop and wait for a school bus to resume motion.
- Look out for students on wheels. Students biking, on scooters, or skateboarders may be unpredictable, especially near school zones.
- Plan ahead to reduce rush. Leaving a few minutes early helps avoid the temptation to speed through busy areas.
There’s no substitute for slowing down, staying alert, and acting with patience when you’re driving near schools and in neighborhoods. A few extra seconds of caution today can protect a students life.
To learn more about driving safely around vulnerable roadways users, take our free Oregon Friendly Driver course today.
