August Traffic Awareness: Back-to-School Safety Tips

Back-to-School Excitement and Awareness

The smell of new school supplies, a fresh start, and the promise of autumn in the air—while the back-to-school season is filled with excitement, it also brings a certain level of stress for many families. During this bustling time, National Traffic Awareness Month in August serves as a perfect reminder of the importance of road safety. With increased traffic around schools, understanding how to navigate this season safely is paramount.

Watch for Children Crossing

As the school year begins, the number of children walking or biking to school significantly increases. Be particularly alert in residential areas and around school zones where students are crossing streets.

• Slow down and be prepared to stop when you see kids at crosswalks or intersections.
• Encourage children to use crosswalks and wear helmets when biking.
• Remind kids to stay off phones or electronic devices while on the move.

Stay Vigilant Around School Buses

School buses, making frequent stops to pick up and drop off students, play a crucial role in traffic patterns this time of year. It's vital to understand and respect the stop sign laws associated with buses.

• Stop when a school bus extends its stop sign and be patient until it moves again.
• Remain attentive to children who may unexpectedly cross the road near school buses.

Exercise Patience in School Zones

The school drop-off and pick-up process can be chaotic with congested parking lots and busy school zones. As parents and guardians, it’s important to stay calm and alert during these times.

• Plan to arrive early to avoid last-minute rushes.
• Follow designated drop-off and pick-up procedures from the school.
• Be patient with other parents and staff directing traffic.

Give Space to Student Drivers

The roads also feature new, inexperienced student drivers, some of whom are navigating morning traffic for the first time. It's vital to provide these drivers with plenty of space and a bit of understanding.

• Maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and theirs.
• Avoid sudden maneuvers that could confuse a new driver.

Communicate Safety with Your Children

Conversations about road safety are essential. Discuss with your children the importance of staying attentive and following road safety rules.

• Teach them the significance of using crosswalks and looking both ways before crossing streets.
• Instruct on proper bicycle safety including wearing helmets and respecting traffic signals.

Lead by Example

Simple changes in our routines can make a big impact on road safety. Recognize that everyone on the road has a role to play, and this season is an opportunity for us to lead by example. Practicing patience, vigilance, and respect can help create safer communities for everyone.