School Bus Safety
School is in session which means school buses are back on the streets. With that comes an increase in kids running up and down the sidewalks and streets. Extra precautions need to be taken to ensure safety for all! Here are some rules to follow to keep everyone safe.
Tips for Kids Riding the School Bus
The bus can be a lot of fun when you are a kid, but they can also be dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4 to 6 school-age children die each year on school transportation vehicles. Remind your kids of the following safety measures:
- Stay back while the school bus approaches. Your children should stay at least 6 feet away from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop and the doors open.
- Do not distract the driver. Though your kids may think it is fun to laugh and play with the bus driver they are operating a large vehicle and need to be completely focused on driving.
- When getting off the bus always cross in front of the bus and look both ways before crossing.
Sharing the Roads with Buses
It is well-known that school buses make frequent stops. You must keep this in mind when traveling behind these vehicles.
Stay alert
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents in the country. You must be alert especially when behind a school bus. Being distracted for even a second could cause you to crash into a bus.
Do not pass
If you are running late for work, it can be frustrating having a school bus in front of you. However, this is not a good reason to pass a school bus. It is against the law to pass a school bus when their lights are flashing- these lights signal that children are either loading or exiting the bus. If you choose to pass a bus while the lights are flashing you will not only get a ticket, but you are putting yourself at risk of hitting and injuring pedestrians. Only pass a school bus when it is safe and legal to do so.
Give Space
You must give a school bus space while driving and while stopped. Riding too close to the bus puts you and the children at risk of a crash or injury. The 10-foot area around a bus is the most dangerous for pedestrians. While stopped make sure you give enough room for children to cross.
Watch for pedestrians
Kids getting off the school bus can move unexpectedly. Many of them are distracted with their friends and could easily step into the road. Stay alert and make sure the roads are clear before moving forward.
We want the school year to be a safe time for everyone. By following these tips, you lower your risk of an accident. Have you been injured in an accident? If so, call Rob Levine & Associates today. We will get you the compensation that you deserve.
