With just days until school resumes, ICBC is asking parents to help prepare children to get to and from school safely.
Every year in B.C., an average of 30 children aged five to 18 are killed and 5,100 injured in 14,700 crashes.
"As children across the province return to school, it's the ideal time for parents to review the rules of the road with their children and take the time to go over their daily route with them," said Todd Stone, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. "Everyone should plan ahead for the return of the school season because the roads will be much busier, so remember to leave earlier to avoid rushing, stay focused on the road and use extra caution, especially around school zones."
Here are ICBC's tips for drivers, parents and students to help everyone stay safe as school returns:
Tips for drivers:
When school is back in session, don't forget that every school day, unless otherwise posted, a 30-km/h speed limit is in effect in school zones from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When you're dropping off your children in school zones, stop and allow them to exit the car on the side closest to the sidewalk. Never allow a child to cross mid-block.
If a vehicle is stopped in front of you or in the lane next to you, they may be yielding to a pedestrian, so be prepared to stop. Always yield to pedestrians - it's the law.
School buses will be back on our roads. Vehicles approaching from both directions must stop for school buses when their lights are flashing.
Before getting into your vehicle, make a habit of walking around your vehicle to make sure no small children are behind it. Always look for pedestrians when you're backing up.
Tips for parents and students:
Remove your headphones and put away your phone or other gadgets when crossing the street. Focus on the road so you can see, hear and respond safely.
Make eye contact with drivers, so you both know you see each other.
Teach your child to cross at intersections that have a pedestrian crossing light or a marked crosswalk whenever possible. Even at a crosswalk, be aware of traffic and always make sure that vehicles are stopped before walking. Use designated crossing points and follow pedestrian traffic signs and signals.
Dress to be seen. Wear bright or light coloured clothing. In dark or bad weather, wear reflective material on clothes or accessories.
Always walk on the inside edge of the sidewalk. This way, you're further away from traffic. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles and drivers see you.
Children should avoid taking shortcuts through parking lots.
-Submitted
