Back to School Driver Safety Tips?

Question

We get accustomed to certain driving conditions, then when a situation changes radically, like snow on ground, or flooded roads, some of us are not well prepared for how best to deal with conditions we may not have seen before or for a long long time. As the school year starts up again, we will be encountering children commuting with school, some so young it is their first time.

We motorists need to be especially alert for kids who don't know safe ways or places to cross the street.

We know to stop when there is a school bus stopping, even on other side of highway, because there are far too many accidents when kids crossing street after getting off a school bus, or crossing street to where school bus is to pick them up, or they playing around the spot where school bus will come.

What else should we watch out for as summer ends and school starts?

Answer 1

A responsible driver is a driver who respects other motorists and pedestrians.

One of the most important things to do is to slow at crosswalks or other crossings that children may use especially around blind spots. If you see a child or other pedestrian anywhere, slow down. This is instinct for many, but still, some do not slow.

Many children have no idea that there are specific crossings to ensure their safety but will run across the incorrect portion of the street anyway.

Other children never stop to check for oncoming cars on the street. On the other hand, some children check once before crossing, but do not continue to look while crossing.

The main point is to slow and exercise clear judgment around school zones.

Answer 2

I always am watching everything as I drive. It's just what I have been accustomed to, what I have taught myself. When one is driving a sports car, one is aware of every little thing that could cause you to wreck, to hit something bigger or smaller, near or far. Perhaps it was my Military Training that forced me into this particular style, if you will, of driving. It's defensive, no doubt about it, but also cautionary.
It may have come from my own experience, as a child, when I was hit by a car, not an ordinary car but a hearse, my neck was pinched by the front tire, I did not sustain any injury but it made me aware of what can happen.
Something like that is a life changing epiphany.
Rick

Answer 3

Summer is not yet "out of the kids". Be prepared when you see children anywhere near the street.