How to Be Safe On Your Commute to School

As students return to school, it is important to be reminded of the many dangers we all face in our daily commutes. Listed below are important safety tips, especially for your child’s commute to school. Whether you have kids going off to school for the first time, teenagers who just got their license, or are a regular Metro area commuter, the dangers of school starting back up will affect you.

Cars

New drivers, eager drivers, and sleepy drivers all share the road. As a car commuter you should be aware of the risks you take every day. Safety tips include:

• Do not use your cell phone while driving.
• Be alert while changing the radio or song.
• Avoid drowsy driving.
• Use sunglasses.
• Always follow the rules of the road and speed limits.

Remember! School Zones are back, so always check your speed while traveling through one.

Buses

If your child takes a bus to school, share these safety tips.

• Be on time! Rushing to make the bus can be dangerous.
• Dress for the weather. Check the weather before leaving the house. You may need an umbrella or coat.
• Stay away from curb. Always keep a safe distance between you and the street.
• Cross the street in front of stopped buses and make sure other cars have stopped for the bus.
• Remain in your seat until the bus has stopped.

Metro

The Metro is cheap and convenient way to get to school. If your child takes the metro to school, pass on these safety tips.

• Know you route. Always keep in mind what stop you’re approaching and when you need to get off.
• Choose the right car. Middle cars are the safest in a collision.
• Be aware of where the emergency exits are and how to use them.

Bicycles

If you live close to school, you may feel comfortable sending your children to school on their bicycles. Be aware of the risks and know how to stay safe.

• Always wear a helmet.
• Be cautious around buses and cars.
• Ride in bike lane, if available.
• Avoid busy roads.
• Only ride during daylight hours.

Walkers

If walking to school is a realistic option, do it! Just be aware of these safety tips first.

• Keep your head up, don’t text and walk!
• Look both ways before crossing road, even on a one-way road.
• Notify a parent when you have made it to school or back home.

School is back in session! No matter what mode of transportation you take, there are risks to your commute to school. Be aware of the risks and try to minimize them as best you can. If you or someone you know has been injured during a daily commute, it may be due to the negligence of another party. To explore your legal options, you need a trusted local attorney by your side. The team at Regan Zambri Long PLLC has years of experience helping people.  Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

About the Author

Patrick M. Regan, Esq.

Patrick Regan is a board certified personal injury lawyer and a founding partner at Regan Zambri Long. His practice is devoted to helping those who suffered catastrophic injuries in car accidents, truck accidents, Metro accidents, and medical malpractice. Over his nearly 40-year career, Patrick has obtained some of the most significant jury verdicts in the history of Washington, DC on behalf of injured victims. Patrick is licensed to practice law in Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland. He received his B.A. at Hamilton College and his J.D. at the Columbus School of Law at the Catholic University of America.