Child Safety: Driving Tips

FOR KIDS’ SAKE, DRIVE WISELY
The greatest threat to children’s health today is motor vehicle crashes—the leading cause of death among children 3 to 14, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. One in five of the traffic fatalities in this age group is a pedestrian, and the dangers escalate when school is in session. To help protect everyone’s kids, follow these tips from our School’s Open—Drive Carefully program.

• Slow down around schools and in residential areas, especially in the morning and afternoon.

• Don’t double-park in a school zone or stop in crosswalks. Use approved drop-off and pickup areas only.

• Don’t rush. Make lunches and organize backpacks the night before and leave yourself lots of time to get your children to school.

• Obey school zone speed limit signs and come to a complete stop at all intersections.

• Look for clues, such as AAA School Safety Patrols, bicycles, and playgrounds, that children might be in the area. Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs of children.

• Stop for school buses that are loading or unloading.

• Be extra cautious in bad weather. Drive with your headlights on so children can see you.

• Drive distraction-free. Don’t use a cell phone, eat, apply makeup, or shave.

For advice on keeping children safe as they go to and from school, including tips on smart walking, carpooling, and starting a AAA school safety patrol, visit AAA.com/childsafety [2].

This article was first published in September 2010. Some facts may have aged gracelessly. Please call ahead to verify information.