Back-to-school safety: Tips for drivers, parents, and students

The 2024 school year has officially started on the Treasure Coast. And that means it’s time to slow down and share the road. Here are important back-to-school safety tips for everyone.

As the lazy days of summer fade into the hustle and bustle of back-to-school season, the energy in the air is palpable. Across the Treasure Coast, students are returning to school and parents are adjusting to the new routine of early mornings and homework schedules. But amidst all the excitement, one thing remains crucial: safety.

With school back in session, Treasure Coast roadways will start to look a little different. School buses will reappear in the mornings and afternoons, children will be walking and biking through neighborhoods (sometimes a little unpredictability), and traffic will inevitably pick up. It’s important that we all adjust our driving habits to keep everyone safe. Take a moment to review these important back-to-school safety tips.

1. Slow down in school zones

We get it—mornings are a rush. But when you’re driving through a school zone, you have to drive with extra precaution and slow down. The reduced speed limits in school zones exist for a reason: Kids are shorter, unpredictable, and often excited to see their friends, which means they might dash out unexpectedly. Here are a few extra tips:

• Look out for crossing guards: Follow all signals and directions from crossing guards. They are there to ensure safe passage for children across busy streets.

• Don’t drive distracted: Put your phone down and stay focused on the road. Texting or using your phone while driving can lead to accidents, especially in busy school areas.

• Be patient: During pick-up and drop-off times, traffic can be heavy. Be patient, follow the designated traffic flow, and avoid speeding.

2. Stop for school buses and watch for children

When a bus stops and flashes its lights, you must stop. It’s the law—no passing and no sneaking around the side. Kids are getting on or off, and their safety is priority number one. If you are a parent with a child riding a bus this year, here are three important safety tips:

• Arrive early: Be at the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled arrival time. Rushing can lead to accidents.

• Stay visible: Have your child stand at least three giant steps back from the curb while waiting for the bus. Ensure the bus driver can see them at all times.

• Be cautious around buses: Remind your child to always walk in front of the bus when getting off. Make sure the driver can see them before they cross the street.

3. Watch for students walking and biking

With the new school year comes an influx of students walking, biking, scootering, and yes, sometimes even rollerblading their way to and from school. For drivers, this means it’s time to be extra vigilant, especially during mornings and afternoons when school begins and ends.

Watch for kids crossing the street, especially in neighborhoods and near schools. They’re often smaller than adults, can be hard to spot between cars, and may not always follow the rules of the road. And kids on bikes are often full of energy and may weave through traffic or pop out from unexpected places. When passing a cyclist, give them plenty of space, be prepared for sudden stops or turns, and remember they may not always look or signal before turning.

If you’re a parent with a childen walking or biking to school, here are few extra tips:

• Plan the route together: Map out the safest route to school in advance. Choose paths with sidewalks, bike lanes, and minimal traffic. If possible, select streets with crossing guards or signal-controlled intersections. Walk or bike the route together a few times so your child feels confident and familiar with it.

• Teach them the rules of the road: Make sure your child knows the basics. Look both ways before crossing the street. Use crosswalks and always wait for the “walk”signal if there’s a light. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them to ensure they see you. If biking, follow traffic rules like any vehicle—ride in the same direction as traffic, stop at stop signs, and use hand signals.

• Equip them with the right gear: If your child is walking, make sure they have comfortable shoes (no flip-flops!) and a backpack that fits securely. If your child is biking, make sure they have a properly fitted helmet, a well-maintained bike, and reflective gear.

Back-to-school safety is everyone’s responsbility

Back-to-school season is exciting, chaotic, and full of new beginnings. By following these simple safety tips, we can ensure that it’s also safe for everyone. So, whether you’re a parent, student, or driver, take a deep breath, slow down, and remember: we all share the road. Let’s make sure everyone gets to school and back home safely.

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