August is time for back to school, and it is also National Traffic Awareness Month. Be more aware and vigilant as we transition back to school-day congestion. Parents & Guardians should set aside time to talk about traffic safety and safe routes with their kids before they head back to school. Here are some Back to School Traffic Safety Tips for Drivers, Parents & Guardians, and Students:
Back to School Safety Tips
- Be Visible: Wear bright colors and use reflective tape on backpacks, jackets, and bikes.
- Phones Down, Eyes Up
- Walk or bike with an adult or other students.
- Cross at Intersections: Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- Bike on the right. Wear a bike helmet.
- Choose the safest route.
Parents & Guardians: Back to School Driving Tips
- Slow down. Follow posted school zone speed limits. Stay below 25 mph in residential neighborhoods.
- Watch for kids on bikes. Pass with three or more feet of space.
- Watch for sun glare. Use vehicle sun visors if driving into sun glare. Further reduce speed if needed.
- Pay attention at crosswalks. Look for children on the sidewalk and in the street. Do not block crosswalks.
- Reverse slowly. Check for children on sidewalks, driveways and around your vehicle.
- Pull to the curb. Have children exit the vehicle directly onto the sidewalk.
- Never pass a bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
- Keep clear of school traffic. Leave early to avoid school traffic or park farther from the school and walk the rest of the way.
- Never change lanes or U-turn in a school zone.
