As the summer winds down, nearly 25 million students will be going back to school.  It is important to be alert and follow the safety tips below when driving in neighborhoods or around schools where children are commuting.   Remember to share the road as students may travel by bus, bicycle or walk to school.

  • The area around a school bus is the most dangerous for children. Stay back and drive slowly if passing a bus.  Prepare to stop for a school bus when the yellow lights are flashing.  Come to a complete stop when red lights are flashing.  Never pass a stopped bus or one that is loading or unloading children.
  • Stay alert and eliminate all distractions that you may have while driving. Children can be unpredictable and take unnecessary safety risks.
  • Leave at least 3 feet between you car and the cyclist when sharing the road. Be aware that children may be riding their bicycles on sidewalks.
  • Come to a complete stop at intersections. Never block crosswalks when you are at a red light or stop sign.
  • Drive the designated speed limit in the school zones.
  • Stop for pedestrians at special school crossings.
  • Drive slowly in school parking lots.

For more information visit:  http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/back-to-school-safety-tips-for-drivers.aspx