Updated on: 11/19/2019
August signals the end of summer. And what's even bigger: the start of school. Some kids will be hoofing it to school for the first time this year, and we want them to take every precaution they can against distracted drivers. Because back to school time means that school zone accidents spike.
There are more cars on the roadways and more children on the sidewalks. You don't have to be a math wiz to realize that this increases the chances for collisions. Let's explore some of the misconceptions and statistics related to pedestrian accidents in school zones the United States.
Statistics On School Zone Collisions
Approximately 100 children in the United States are killed every year while walking to or from school, and another 25,000 sustain injuries as a result of school zone accidents. Crossing zones near schools are always an area of focus for lawmakers and safety advocates, particularly when it comes to addressing the risk of school zone accidents.
Maybe that’s due to the fact that a 2009 study from Safe Kids USA showed that one-in-six drivers in school zones is driving distracted. Almost 17 percent of all drivers in school zones are putting kids at risk of a school zone accidents and potentially devastating injuries. School zones are one of the most dangerous places for a distracted driver, if not the most.
Additional studies have showed that the effects of distracted driving are relatively similar to those exhibited by drunk drivers. This means that those drivers are acting about as reckless as drunk drivers in marked zones designated for children to cross.
More About Pedestrian Laws
Kids aren’t as well-versed about traffic laws and safe practices as adults are; let’s face it, many adults aren’t even all that clear about the rules and regulations of crossing the street.
Many experts in the safety industry agree that the best way to improve safety and shift the approach to school zone accidents is through education. Kids with a better understanding of their surroundings and the law are less likely at risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident.
Below, we address some of the myths associated with school zone accidents and some clarifying information that can better inform our children to prevent child injuries.
Tips For Pedestrians
- Cross with caution: A “Walk” signal does not necessarily mean that the street is safe for crossing.
- Do the doublecheck: Look both ways to determine the flow of traffic before crossing the street. Remember LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT before entering a crosswalk.
- Assume drivers are distracted: As we mentioned earlier, approximately one-in-six drivers in school zones is distracted. Make sure cars are yielding to the crosswalk before attempting to cross the street.
- Keep an eye out: Other pedestrians may not always be as aware and prepared as you are. Stay alert and take charge if you see a potentially dangerous situation beginning to develop.
- When there's a sidewalk, use it: A majority of pedestrians involved in accidents in school zones are walking in the roadway.
- Texting and music can distract you: This doesn't just apply to drivers. Pedestrians are also vulnerable if they're not paying attention.
- When leaving a vehicle, exit on the curb side: Do not open yourself up to cars passing by.
