Safe Driving Tips: School’s Back in Session!

As the summer winds down, school buses are hitting the roads again, and children are making their way to and from school. Whether you’re a professional driver navigating the highways or a casual driver making your daily commute, road safety becomes even more critical with the increase in traffic. At Bison USA, we believe it’s our collective responsibility to ensure our roads are safe for everyone—especially our children.

In this blog post, we’ll share some essential tips for staying alert and safe during the back-to-school season and answer some common questions drivers may have about road safety during this time of year.

Back-to-School Driving Tips: What You Need to Know

1. Stay Alert in School Zones: School zones are often marked by flashing lights and reduced speed limits during the mornings and afternoons. Always be extra cautious and observe lower speed limits in these areas. Be prepared to stop quickly for children crossing the road or exiting school buses.
2. Obey School Bus Laws: When a school bus stops to let children on or off, it will extend its stop sign arm, and its red lights will flash. This is your signal to stop—regardless of the direction you’re coming from. Most states require vehicles to stop on both sides of the road when the bus is stopped. Do not proceed until the lights stop flashing and the stop sign is retracted.
3. Minimize Distractions: Distracted driving is dangerous at any time, but it becomes especially hazardous during the school year. Put your phone away, avoid adjusting your GPS while driving, and stay focused on the road. By eliminating distractions, you can respond quickly to unexpected hazards.
4. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Children often walk or ride bikes to school. Be extra mindful of kids crossing the street at crosswalks and intersections, and always yield the right of way. Drive slowly near crosswalks and bus stops, especially during the morning and afternoon hours.
5. Maintain a Safe Distance from Buses: School buses make frequent stops and can take longer to accelerate, so it’s essential to keep a safe following distance. Give buses plenty of room, and be patient as they pick up or drop off students.
6. Plan for Increased Traffic: The start of the school year often leads to more traffic, so allow extra time for your commute. Being in a rush can lead to speeding and aggressive driving, which increases the likelihood of accidents. Stay calm and plan accordingly.

FAQ: Safe Driving During the School Year

1. What are the speed limits in school zones? Speed limits in school zones typically range from 15 to 25 mph, depending on the local laws. Always check for posted signs in school areas and be prepared to slow down during school hours.

2. Do I have to stop for a school bus on a divided highway? In most states, you must stop for a school bus when traveling in the same direction, even on a divided highway. However, if there is a physical median, vehicles going in the opposite direction may not be required to stop. Check your state’s specific laws to be sure.

3. How far should I stop behind a school bus? You should stop at least 10 feet behind a school bus when its red lights are flashing and its stop arm is extended. This allows children to safely cross the road and reduces the chance of an accident.

4. What do I do if I see children playing near the road? Slow down and be prepared to stop. Children can be unpredictable, and they may run into the road without warning. Being cautious in areas where children are playing can prevent accidents.

5. Is it safer to drive during non-school hours? While traffic may be lighter outside of school hours, it’s essential to practice safe driving at all times. Unexpected events, such as after-school activities or sports, can still result in children being near the road during off-hours.

Conclusion

Back-to-school season is a reminder for all drivers to be vigilant and share the road safely. Whether you’re driving a truck cross-country or just making a short trip through your neighborhood, the responsibility to keep our roads safe is shared by everyone.

At Bison USA, we take road safety seriously, and we encourage all drivers to be mindful of their surroundings, follow school zone laws, and stay alert. Let’s work together to ensure a safe, successful school year for everyone!