We all know times are different now. Some kids are learning virtually from home, some are returning to school full-time and many are engaged in some form of hybrid learning.
But however the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted your home life and methods of working and learning, it hasn't changed one thing: The need to exercise extra caution on the roads now that youngsters are out and about more.
Besides the number one tip to never illegally pass a stopped bus, the National Safety Council, a non-profit safety advocate, has some recommendations for safe driving around schools:
Don't double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
Don't load or unload children across the street from the school
Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school
The site also states some sobering statistics: Most children who are killed in bus-related incidents are 4-7 years old, and they are walking (hit by a bus, or a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus). To avoid a life-changing accident, follow these tips:
Don't block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn (if pedestrians have to go around you they could end up in the path of traffic)
In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection
Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign
And some common sense tips go a long way. Be courteous, don't honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, no matter how late you are running or whether or not you have the right of way.
Take the time to look for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks and in residential areas.
Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians! A child could be walking nearby and you are unable to see them.
More tips on safe driving near schools can be found here.