The fall season is right around the corner, which marks the start of the school year. This is when commuters need to be focused; rush hour traffic is more congested as schools open to children across the United States. Due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, safety is especially paramount.
It has always been important for commuters to practice safe driving habits. This year, the road may look different to some drivers. Businesses are beginning to open back up either completely or in a modified manner, such as restaurants, so traffic patterns may be different compared to life before the pandemic. There may even be more pedestrians and drivers in school zones as well.
How can Students Remain Safe in School Zones?
When school is in session, there will be many more pedestrians and drivers in school zones. Drivers in school zones must obey the decreased speed limit and pay attention to other motorists and pedestrians around them. Drivers should also watch out for sudden stops.
There is also the possibility of distracted drivers not obeying traffic laws, distracted driving can increase car accidents in designated school zones. When driving, it is important to always keep one’s focus on the road.
What Safety Tips Should Parents Teach Their Children?
Unfortunately, a driver can be surprised by the sudden appearance of a stopped car or slowed traffic in a school zone if they are not paying attention. This scenario would most likely end up in a car accident. Also, an accident could happen if a child is not paying attention to their surroundings or playing near the road.
Parents should have a conversation with their children before each school year and remind them of some basic safety rules. Students should pay attention to cars and other pedestrians around them, maintain safe distances from curbs, and they should always look both ways before crossing streets.
Dropping Off Students in School Zones
If parents are dropping off their children at school, they should also be very mindful of their surroundings. They should not double-park their car, which would block the view of other drivers or children walking by.
Parents must also drop off their children right in front of the school instead of on the other side of the street or around the corner. Close drop-off and pick-up zones will reduce the chances of accidents.
If a car accident does happen in a school zone, a parent or student should speak to an experienced lawyer. A victim may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver.
Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyers at Eaton & Torrenzano Protect Drivers and Students Injured by Negligent Drivers
As schools open up amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to remember that the safety of students is extremely crucial. Unfortunately, motorists still drive recklessly in school zones. If you or your child was injured by a negligent driver on school grounds, then contact one of our trusted Brooklyn car accident lawyers at Eaton & Torrenzano right away. Call us at 718-332-7766 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Brooklyn and Staten Island, New York, as well as Hillsborough, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout Kings County and Richmond County, including Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, the Bronx, and Manhattan.