School is in session. This means traffic pattern changes – both foot traffic and vehicle traffic. Two highly dangerous times for Alaskan citizens are: 1) August – the month school starts; and 2) May – the month school lets out. Please be even more careful while driving and make every effort to ensure your child is as visible to other drivers.
Watch For Buses, Pedestrians, And Bicycles
As either a driver or a pedestrian, you may think an enormous yellow school bus is hard to miss. The key is not just to see the bus, but to be vigilant when it stops. School buses utilize flashing lights and a protective arm before opening their doors to allow students on and off the bus. Here are some considerations to remember:
- Give school buses a wide berth.
- Watch children who may dash toward and away school buses.
- PAY ATTENTION – It is against the law to ignore a school bus “STOP” sign.
- Give children entering or exiting the bus the right of way.
- Watch for even more pedestrians and bicyclists will be on the road.
- Pedestrians and bicyclists have the right of way in crosswalks.
- Be especially careful when turning right at a red light.
School Zones
Now that school is in session, those school zone crosswalks are even more critical. Identified by yellow signs including: “SCHOOL CROSSING” & “SCHOOL XING” as well as pedestrian images, these signs establish school pedestrian routes adjacent to schools. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Similarly, Alaska DOT has signs indicating “School Bus Stop Ahead.” This sign is normally used where drivers are not able to see the flashing lights of a school bus 700 feet in advance of the bus stop. While school zones have maximum speed limits, drivers must drive at speeds safe for conditions. This means driving less than the maximum speed when necessary.
Reflective Gear
Think about school safety before the days grow shorter. Purchase backpacks and other gear with reflective material. Purchase reflective shoes and jackets. If your child’s backpack, clothing or shoes aren’t reflective, apply reflective tape to your child’s school gear and outerwear. Reflective gear helps drivers see your child.
School Donations Make a Difference
Whether you have school age children or not, please donate to your local school. While picking up a few extra notebooks, boxes of crayons, glue sticks, scissors, or pens, throw in reflective tape. Families and schools will appreciate your generosity. For most communities, a few dollars makes a huge difference. Spend a few dollars and save a life.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: Alaska State Legislature; Ward Merdes
Image Source: Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
