Students across Pennsylvania are back in school, adjusting to new teachers, new friends and new schedules. However, they are not the only people who are settling back in to the demands of the school year.
Drivers across the state also need to acclimate themselves to new things. More specifically, they need to refocus on safe driving around schools and kids. Unfortunately, too many fail to do this and they end up putting the lives and safety of children and others in danger. Below, we will examine a few of the critical changes drivers need to make in order to avoid causing devastating crashes around schools.
- Slowing down: Speed limits decrease in school zones to reflect the presence of children near a school. Drivers who fail to slow down can be at risk doing catastrophic damage in the event of a collision with another vehicle, bicyclist or pedestrian.
- Being alert: Children can run out into the street unexpectedly. Further, they are harder to see than adults are. Because of these visibility issues, it is crucial for drivers to stay alert and keep a watchful eye out, particularly around schools.
- Following traffic signals: In some cases, certain traffic signals are only active or enforced during school days. Be especially aware of turn restrictions and yielding. If there is a crossing guard present, be sure you comply with their direction as well.
- Watching out for school buses: Whether you are behind a school bus on the road or passing one stopped at a school, use caution. Be mindful of their lights and stop sign extensions. If you are passing by one, go slowly and expect there to be kids unloading or loading in the area.
Drivers who take these steps around kids, buses and schools make everyone safer. Those who fail to do these things are putting these people’s lives in danger.
If you or your child is hurt in a crash this fall, then it is crucial that you understand your options for legal remedies. You could collect compensation for the physical, emotional and financial damages you and your family have suffered.