It’s hard to believe that Labor Day Weekend is just around the corner, and soon another school year will be underway. As much as I cherish my fond memories of driving my daughter to school when she was young, I also know — as all parents do — that these early mornings can be stressful, with sleepy, cranky students, congested streets, and lots of rushing around.
Last week, we shared safety tips for students getting to school, by bike or bus, on foot, or behind the wheel themselves. But adult drivers have to do our part too, whether we’re driving our sons and daughters to school or merely on the road for our daily commutes. Here are important driving tips to consider as traffic increases for the new school year.
1) First and foremost, don’t rush.
Speeding is a leading cause in many accidents, and unfortunately, hectic mornings often leave both parents and students feeling rushed. Packing backpacks and preparing lunch the night before can do wonders. But even if you are running late, remember to drive carefully and cautiously.
2) Be extra cautious while backing out to leave your home.
You probably already know to slow down in school zones. But depending on where you live, there may be many students on the sidewalk near your home on their way to school. Take a moment to double-check for any kids en route before pulling out of the driveway.
3) Study the local bus routes.
Knowing the specific school bus routes can be helpful for drivers. You’ll be able to anticipate bus stops, where children wait, and know to take extra precautions while passing through those areas. But it also can help you get to your destination faster (and of course safely), be it your child’s school or an office: with some planning, alternative bus-free routes could help you avoid congested roads.
4) Keep distractions to a minimum.
By now, we’re all well aware of the perils of distracted driving. Beyond avoid texting or talking on the phone while driving, I suggest turning the radio off near bus stops or in school zones. When you take your eyes off the road to change the station or adjust the volume, it could be dangerous for kids walking nearby, and for you.
Get Legal From an Car Accident Lawyer Memphis Trusts
As always, I hope these tips help you and the young students in your family enjoy a fun, safe school year. But if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, we can help. Our experienced lawyers understand how traumatic a car accident can be. We are known for our compassion — and our results — and we will fight for you to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online today or call 901-327-1212 to speak in person with the car accident lawyer Memphis TN trusts with their cases.