School zones are designed to be safe for children. They feature speed restrictions and other precautions when school is in session, including flashing lights, crossing guards, or a law enforcement presence. Despite these efforts, school zone accidents occur with alarming frequency each year when drivers violate school zone laws intended to protect children. These accidents, which often include rear-end collisions, pedestrian and bicycle accidents, and bus accidents, result in serious and sometimes fatal injuries.
A Back-to-School Traffic Surge Demands Vigilant Driving
A significant increase in road traffic occurs at the start of the school year as students, teachers, and administrators travel to and from their classrooms. Students navigate bus routes, get dropped off and picked up by their parents, and walk or bike to school. Young adults typically drive to high school and college. This surge in traffic during peak hours requires drivers to remain alert and cautious, especially at school zones, bus stops, and pedestrian crossings.
To highlight the importance of safe driving, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recognizes August as Child Safety Awareness Month, reminding drivers to be vigilant on the roads to protect our children.
Safety Tips for Parents and Students
For Walkers:
- Use the sidewalk whenever available. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing the traffic.
- Always use the crosswalks or intersections when crossing the street
- Avoid distracted walking, such as using headphones or having cell phone conversations.
- Follow the directions from the school crossing guard or law enforcement.
For Bike Riders:
- Ride on the side of the road with the traffic.
- When crossing the street, get off the bike and walk across.
- Avoid distracted riding.
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet and bright clothing.
For Bus Riders:
- Parents should accompany their children to the bus stop.
- When the bus approaches, children should stay at least six feet behind the curb. T
- To cross the street in front of a bus, stay at least ten feet before the bus.
- Make eye contact with the driver so the driver knows you are there.
For Parents Driving Their Children to School:
- Obey school zone speed limits and follow your school’s drop-off procedure.
- Do not pass a bus when loading or unloading children.
- Follow the directions of the school crossing guard or law enforcement.
- Do not double park in front of the school.
For Teen Drivers:
- Stress to your teen the importance of good driving habits.
- Encourage seatbelt usage at all times.
- Stress the need to minimize distractions while driving.
- Teach them to observe traffic signs and signals.
- Instruct them to adjust driving according to weather conditions.
Expert Legal Guidance for Personal Injury Claims
At the Ogle Law Firm, we hope you never need our services for a school zone accident. However, if you or your child has been injured due to the negligence or unlawful actions of a driver, we are here to help you secure compensation for injuries, pain and suffering, rehabilitation, and any other expenses you may incur.
Attorney William Ogle is a National Board-Certified Civil Trial Specialist, recognized as an expert in his field. He possesses the specialized knowledge, skills, and proficiency necessary to uphold the law and seek justice for you and your family.
Ogle Law Firm: Your Voice Against Negligence and Injustice
Motor vehicle accidents can be very complex. One or many parties may potentially be held accountable, including the at-fault driver, the vehicle owner, the employer of a driver, city and state agencies, or the motor vehicle manufacturer. At the Ogle Law Firm, we thoroughly investigate the evidence of each accident claim to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
To speak with a dedicated Florida school zone accident lawyer, contact the Ogle Law Firm at (352) 253-2500 to schedule a consultation at our Daytona Beach or Gainesville, Florida, offices. Our legal team represents clients throughout Volusia and Alachua Counties, Florida, and the surrounding areas. We offer expert legal guidance when you need it most.