The passing of summer does not just mean an end to carefree days at the beach or the cottage.
It also represents the end of a relatively carefree summer for drivers all over the country.
Granted, driving should never be too carefree of an activity. One must always be attentive when behind the wheel of a car.
But just as summer break provides school kids with a vacation from their studies, it grants drivers a short reprieve from the worries of school zones and bus stops.
But now that school is back in session, drivers must once again be extra careful around schools and local neighbourhoods, especially before and after school. Lots of kids will be walking back and forth, while others will be catching the bus. Both of these scenarios demand care and attention from drivers.
If you’re driving a motor vehicle, you must always be prepared for the unexpected. If you’re driving through a school zone and a child runs out into the road without warning, you must be prepared to slam on the brakes. Ideally, both drivers and pedestrians will follow the rules of the road, and usually that is the case; but not always.
Drivers can also help the cause of student safety by obeying the special speed limits during school hours, which are designed to give both driver and student plenty of time to recognize potentially dangerous situations.
And passing a stopped school bus is never a good idea, especially when its lights are flashing; even if no children appear to be getting on or off or crossing the street to do so.
Student safety is, of course, a two-way street (pun intended). Kids must exercise common sense when crossing roads and parking lots, and pay as much attention to their journey as drivers do.
First, they should only cross at crosswalks, and always with a crossing guard when one is available. Even then, it’s smart to look both ways at least once before taking that first step out on to the road.
Parking lots can be just as perilous and demand just as much care. Kids should be careful to note when cars are backing in and out of spots. Don’t cross the path of a car unless it is stopped and you are absolutely sure the driver is aware of your presence.
If drivers and students alike pay attention and take their time on their travels, everyone should be safe and sound this year.
