As 675,000 Utah students head back to school this month, the American Red Cross of Utah is reminding motorists to use extra caution, especially in and around school zones.
According to the Red Cross, more than 25,000 children were injured nationwide last year while commuting to or from school, “making it essential for everyone on the road to stay alert and drive carefully.”
The organization is encouraging parents to talk with their children about pedestrian and bicycle safety.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, child pedestrian fatalities increased by 11% since 2013, despite overall pedestrian deaths declining over the past 30 years. The sharpest rise is seen among 10- to 14-year-olds and 15- to 19-year-olds, many of whom walk or bike to school.
Red Cross officials say that as campuses reopen statewide, extra caution from motorists is critical.
“Students walking to school may be distracted by smartphones, social media or earbuds, which can prevent them from noticing nearby traffic,” said Heidi Ruster, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “In today’s fast-paced and tech-focused world, it’s vital that drivers stay alert and that families reinforce safety habits for students walking or biking to school.”
Driving through school zones
When driving through school zones, motorists should reduce their speed and stay alert. If a school bus has flashing yellow lights, it is preparing to stop — drivers should slow down and be ready to stop as well.
Flashing red lights and an extended stop arm indicate that children are boarding or exiting the bus. Vehicles must stop in both directions until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm is retracted, and all children are safely out of the road.
Back-to-school safety tips from the Red Cross
For students:
Arrive early and stand well back from the curb while waiting for the bus.
Board the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and follow the driver’s instructions.
Stay in view of the bus driver; never walk behind the bus.
Cross streets only at intersections, obey signals and use crosswalks.
Never run into the street or cross between parked cars.
Wear a helmet when biking to school and ride on the right-hand side of the road, in the direction of traffic.
Walk in groups when possible and use routes with crossing guards.
Parents should walk with young children and those attending a new school or using a new route for at least the first week.
For student drivers and families:
Always wear a seatbelt. Younger children should use appropriate car seats or booster seats.
Teen drivers should buckle up, avoid using phones and not eat or drink while driving.
Allow extra time for your commute, as traffic is often heavier during school hours.
Be patient with other drivers and pedestrians who may also be in a hurry.
Stay calm behind the wheel — stress can lead to poor decisions and increased risk.
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