Back to School Driving Tips: Ensuring Safety for All

Welcome to Safety School

With school back in session, it’s crucial for drivers to adopt extra caution on the road. Increased traffic around schools and neighborhoods means that safe driving is more important than ever. Whether you're dropping off your own children in your Honda Odyssey or simply driving through school zones, these safety tips will help ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the road.

School Bus Safety: Rules for Drivers

School buses are back on the road, and as drivers, we must be vigilant. Here are key tips to help keep children safe as they travel to and from school:

1. Watch for Flashing Lights

When a school bus has its yellow lights flashing, it indicates that the bus is preparing to stop. Drivers should prepare to stop as well. When the red lights are flashing, the bus is making a stop, and all vehicles in both directions must come to a complete stop until the lights are turned off.

2. Stop for School Bus Signs

Always stop when a school bus deploys its stop sign. This rule applies on all two-lane roads, roads with a center turn lane, and even on roads with four or more lanes—unless there is a divided median. If there is a median, only vehicles traveling behind the bus need to stop.

3. Be Aware of Late Arrivals

Even if the bus is not actively stopping, children might still be rushing to catch their ride—sometimes unexpectedly. Stay cautious and vigilant around bus stops, as kids may be on foot or on bicycles.

Bus Safety Tips for Children

Parents and guardians, make sure your children understand these important rules to stay safe at bus stops and while riding the bus:

• Wait at a Safe Distance: Kids should wait at least 10 feet back from the bus until it comes to a complete stop.
• Look Both Ways Before Crossing: Children should always look both ways before crossing in front of the bus, ensuring the driver can see them. Never cross behind the bus.
• Orderly Boarding and Exiting: Always get on and off the bus in a single-file line, avoiding any pushing or shoving.
• Stay Inside the Bus: While riding, keep hands, heads, and personal belongings inside the bus at all times.
• Find a Seat Quickly: Once on board, find a seat and sit down as soon as possible to avoid falling when the bus starts moving.

Dropping Off and Driving Near Schools

Driving around schools requires extra care. Below are key points to help drivers stay safe while navigating school zones and drop-off areas:

1. Obey Crossing Guards

Crossing guards are there to protect children crossing the street. Always follow their instructions and never block a crosswalk while waiting for a green light.

2. No Passing in School Zones

Patience is key. Avoid passing other vehicles in a school zone, as children can be unpredictable and may enter the roadway unexpectedly.

3. Avoid U-Turns and Reversing

While in a school zone, avoid making U-turns or reversing your vehicle. These actions increase the likelihood of an accident.

4. Don’t Rush

Plan to leave early, especially during the first weeks of school when traffic tends to be heavy. This extra time will reduce stress and help ensure a safe journey for you and your child.

5. Reduce Your Speed

Always follow the modified speed limit in school zones, even if children are not immediately visible. After-school activities can extend well beyond regular hours, so staying alert is crucial.

6. Avoid Distractions

Put away all distractions, including cell phones, food, or heated conversations. Kids may not always look out for cars, so it’s up to drivers to stay fully attentive.

Advice for Teen Drivers

Teen drivers are especially vulnerable when it comes to school zones and busy traffic areas. Here’s some targeted advice to help teens drive responsibly:

• Avoid Distractions: The use of cell phones, loud music, and even friends as passengers can be distracting. It’s important to keep distractions to a minimum to stay safe on the road.
• Always Wear a Seatbelt: Seatbelts save lives. Nearly half of all traffic fatalities are due to individuals not wearing their seatbelt. Make sure to click it every time.
• Take It Slow: High school parking lots and neighborhoods can be chaotic. Take your time and always be on the lookout for pedestrians, particularly young children who may be harder to see.

Driving Safely: A Community Effort

When school is in session, the roads are more congested, and the risks increase for everyone—drivers, pedestrians, and passengers. By following these back-to-school driving tips, you can help keep your community safe. Remember, safety begins with each one of us—taking our time, avoiding distractions, and staying aware of our surroundings can make all the difference.

For additional resources, consider reading our comprehensive guide on defensive driving or check out our list of dos and don’ts for new drivers to become the best driver you can be.