Millions of children will be returning to school soon after enjoying a long summer break. One of the main topics on any parent’s mind is the safety of their children returning to the classroom. Unfortunately, accidents can happen anywhere, and children are at most risk for serious injury while traveling to and from school. It is important for both parents and children to make safety a priority when starting the new school year.
Consider the following safety tips to reduce the likelihood of a school-related injury. Taking time to ensure these are routinely followed can be extremely helpful for school-aged children and give peace of mind to their parents.
Arrive early at the bus stop – Running towards or after a school bus puts children in significant danger of being injured in a pedestrian accident. If your child rides the bus to school, it is essential to avoid waiting until the last minute to get to the stop. Encourage your children to get up early enough in the morning to get there with a few minutes to spare.
Carry the right backpack – Taking time to select the right accessories for your children to take to school could translate to having a safer day. A backpack that is too big or heavy can not only cause pain in a child’s neck or back, it can increase the risk for a slip and fall or trip and fall accident. In fact, studies indicate that 55 percent of injuries occurring on school grounds are due to slips and trips. The ideal bag should have wide straps, padding, and should not weigh more than 15 percent of the child’s body weight.
Avoid talking to strangers – It is critical for any parent to discuss the seriousness of speaking to strangers. It is possible for a variety of individuals that may not have good intentions to approach children going to school or while they are there. Continually stress to your child that they should never communicate with adults they do not know.
Practice riding the bus safety – One of the most dangerous times when it comes to school could involve the commute to get there. It is critical for children to be mindful when at the bus stop and on the ride to and from school. It is essential that children remain in the seat on the bus without getting up for any reason until it is time to exit the vehicle.
Driving to school – Many teenagers enjoy driving to school because doing so offers a much more flexible schedule. It is essential to look for vehicle and pedestrian traffic when entering or leaving the school area. Be sure to stop for students that may be crossing in front of you. Additionally, maintain the proper speed limit and avoid distractions when driving through school zones.
Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. Pursue Compensation for Victims of Negligence
The Pittsburgh car accident lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. handle a wide variety of accidents cases throughout Western Pennsylvania. We pursue maximum financial compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and other injury-related expenses so that you can focus on your recovery. Call us at 412-765-1888 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We are conveniently located in Pittsburgh, where we serve clients throughout western Pennsylvania, including those in Allegheny County, Lawrence County, and Washington County.