Back To School Driving Hazards

The start of a new school year means busier roads, crowded drop-off lines, school buses making frequent stops, and more children walking or biking near traffic. 

Even drivers who do not have school-aged children should adjust their habits during this busy season. These driving safety tips can help protect students, families, and other motorists.

School-zone speed limits are designed to give drivers more time to react when children enter or approach the roadway. Pay close attention to posted signs, flashing signals, and reduced speed limits during arrival and dismissal times.

• Do not: Assume children will remain on the sidewalk or cross only at designated locations. A child may step into traffic unexpectedly, especially when distracted, excited, or rushing to avoid being late.

Be prepared to stop when a school bus activates its flashing red lights and extends its stop arm. Under Louisiana law, drivers generally must stop at least 30 feet away while children are loading or unloading. 

• Do not: Pass a stopped school bus simply because you do not see any children. Students may be crossing in front of the bus or approaching from outside your view.

A quick glance at a phone can prevent a driver from noticing a stopped vehicle, crossing guard, bicyclist, or child entering the street. Put your phone away, set your navigation before driving, and avoid eating or reaching for items behind the wheel. 

• Do not: Text, eat, reach for items, or turn around to address children in the back seat. Pull into a safe location when something requires your immediate attention.

School traffic can be frustrating, particularly during the first weeks of a new academic year. Leave earlier than usual, follow the school’s designated traffic pattern, and have children enter or exit from the side closest to the curb. 

• Do not: Speed, double park, make unsafe turns, or stop where your vehicle may block another driver’s view.

Drivers should scan sidewalks, crosswalks, intersections, and the spaces between parked vehicles. Children can be difficult to see, especially near buses, trucks, and SUVs. Continue using extra caution after school hours, when students may be attending practices or other activities. 

• Do not: Block crosswalks or pass bicyclists too closely. Always yield to pedestrians and follow the directions of crossing guards.

Leave enough room to stop safely when traveling near schools, buses, and drop-off areas. 

• Do not: Follow school buses or other vehicles too closely. Traffic can stop suddenly for pedestrians, buses, or vehicles entering the roadway.

Remind young drivers to wear seat belts, put away their phones, limit passenger distractions, and leave enough time to arrive safely.

• Do not: Encourage rushing. Arriving a few minutes late is always better than taking unnecessary risks.

Even careful drivers can be involved in an accident. When a collision occurs, move to a safe location when possible, call 911, and seek medical attention for anyone who may be injured.

Once everyone is safe and any immediate medical needs have been addressed, document the scene when possible and avoid speculating or admitting fault. Before providing a detailed statement to an insurance company, consider speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney at the Jack Bailey Law Corporation. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a school-zone, pedestrian, bicycle, or motor vehicle accident, contact Jack Bailey Law Corporation. Our team can review what happened, answer your questions, and help you understand the next steps.