Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army. –Edward Everett
No matter how long ago you graduated, the beginning a new school year feels like a fresh start. It’s a new beginning, signaling the upcoming changing of the seasons and an end to the more relaxed days of summer.
It’s also a hazardous time to be on the road as your daily commute may be affected by school bus routes. Make sure to allow extra time for your morning drive and follow all laws regarding school buses. Come to a complete stop when a school bus stops with a flashing red light; legally, you are required to wait until the light is turned off before moving your vehicle. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, “All 50 states require that traffic in both directions stop on undivided roadways when students are entering or exiting a school bus.” The organization also points out that the area 10 feet around the bus is the most dangerous for pedestrians, so it’s important to exercise extra caution around buses.
Remember that school buses are required to stop at all railroad tracks, so if you’re behind a bus approaching tracks be prepared to stop as well. Never pass a school bus on the right; it is illegal and could be very dangerous.
If your children are dropped off or walk to school, make sure to remind them of the need to look both ways before crossing a street and to use crosswalks or cross at traffic lights. Kids should not walk or ride bikes behind school buses and other possible blind spots. If your child walks to school, walk with them or have them find a walking buddy for increased safety.
The National Safety Council provides a back to school safety checklist as well as safety tips for motorists. Both are great resources to review as the new school year begins.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident, contact Schuerman Law. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for more than 40 years. John Schuerman is a compassionate advocate for individuals who have been injured as well as for their families. He will aggressively fight for full compensations for injury victims’ claims. Schuerman Law has evening and weekend appointments available in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule your free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
