• BY

3 Back-to-School Driving Tips

Kids in school buses, children on foot and bikes, harried parents in cars: Back-to-school days bring congestion—and an increase in potential hazards.

“This can be a dangerous time because children—as well as drivers—are adjusting to back-to-school routines,” says Alex Epstein, director of Transportation Safety for the National Safety Council (NSC). Fortunately, a few key tips can help improve safety for everyone. Here’s what Epstein recommends that drivers be aware of, as well as some reminders for parents to share with their kids. 

  1. Slow down and drive extra cautiously. Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school. Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles.
  2. When flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection. Be prepared for kids to appear in unexpected places, like from between parked cars; if they’re on bikes, prepare for them to turn in front of you without looking or signaling.
  3. If you need to use your phone, be sure you’re pulled over safely.