As school resumes, family schedules overflow with activities ranging from sports to academic competitions. Amidst this bustle, it's vital not to overlook the importance of safe transportation.
With children frequently commuting to school by various means, road safety emerges as a critical concern. Shockingly, road crashes have consistently been the leading cause of death for children aged 5 to 21 over the last decade, with nearly 500 children injured daily in traffic-related incidents. Clearly, transport safety is a topic that demands attention from both parents and students.
While vehicle safety has improved—resulting in fewer fatalities among drivers and passengers—pedestrians and cyclists are facing increased risks. The proportion of fatalities among these groups rose from 13% in 2007 to 18% in 2016, underscoring the need for heightened awareness not just behind the wheel but also on foot or bike.
For Passengers: Being a defensive passenger means always buckling up—nearly half of all fatalities involve individuals not wearing seatbelts. It also means avoiding rides with drivers who have consumed alcohol. Adhering to these simple practices could save countless lives.
For School Bus Riders: The National Highway Traffic Safety Association advocates the SAFE approach for bus riders:
For Cyclists: Helmets are essential for biking children. Whenever possible, riding on the sidewalk is safest. If street cycling is necessary, sticking to bike lanes and obeying traffic signals is crucial. Parents should ensure their children are well-versed in these rules.
For Pedestrians: Defensive walking involves using sidewalks or, if none are available, facing traffic while walking on the street. A staggering 72% of pedestrian fatalities occur away from intersections, highlighting the importance of crossing streets carefully and always using designated crosswalks.
For Teen Drivers: New drivers may find defensive driving concepts challenging. It’s beneficial for teens to drive with experienced adults who can provide guidance on anticipating hazards and focusing on the road, reinforcing the importance of driving without distractions and wearing seatbelts.
Ensuring the safety of children as they go back to school is a community responsibility. Whether your role is that of a driver, a cyclist, a pedestrian, or a passenger, adopting a defensive approach to road use is imperative. As the new academic year begins, let’s commit to making safety our foremost lesson.