Back to School Safety: Tips for Drivers & Pedestrians
As backpacks come out and yellow buses hit the streets, it’s time for all of us: drivers, students, and families to shift gears and prioritize back-to-school safety. Here are a few simple precautions can help protect everyone during the busy school-year rush.
For Drivers: Share the Road, Protect Young Lives
Children are some of the most vulnerable people on the road, and many are still learning how to safely navigate traffic. As a driver, your attention, patience, and awareness can make all the difference.
- Slow down in school zones – Speed limits aren’t suggestions. Stick to the posted limits and always be ready to stop.
- Stop for school buses – When a bus has its stop arm out and red lights flashing, you must stop from either direction unless you're on a divided highway.
- Watch for crosswalks and crossing guards – Always yield to pedestrians, and never block a crosswalk when stopped at a light.
- Stay off your phone – It can wait. One second of distraction is all it takes to cause a tragedy.
- Be cautious when backing out – In driveways, school parking lots, or residential streets, always double-check for kids walking or biking behind your vehicle.
- Know your school’s drop-off and pick-up procedures – Follow staff directions and stay patient. Safety takes priority over speed.
- Be weather-aware – Fog, rain, and snow limit visibility. Use headlights and increase your following distance in poor conditions.
For Pedestrians: Back-to-School Basics for Kids & Parents
Parents and caregivers can help kids become safe, confident pedestrians by teaching them key safety skills and modeling smart behavior.
- Use sidewalks whenever available – If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far to the left as possible.
- Cross at corners or crosswalks – Never jaywalk or dart between parked cars.
- Look left, right, then left again – Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street.
- Avoid distractions – Walking while texting, gaming, or wearing headphones can be just as dangerous as distracted driving.
- Wear bright colors or reflective gear – Especially during early mornings or cloudy days, visibility is key.
We All Play a Role in Safety
Whether you’re rushing to school drop-off or heading home from work, staying alert and slowing down can save lives. Let’s work together to make this school year a safe and successful one.