School Bus Stop Safety for Children & Drivers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that every year seven students on average are killed in school bus accidents, while 19 (mostly young children) are killed at the bus stop. Therefore, it is vital to teach children bus stop safety.
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Walking
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When heading toward the bus stop or walking home, it is safest to stay on the sidewalk and never run. If no sidewalk exists, children should walk as far to the side as possible, facing oncoming traffic.
Waiting
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Children should stay away from the road and never jokingly play around. This could result in a child falling into a vehicle's path.
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Exiting
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It is important to stay out of the bus driver's blind spot, known as the "Danger Zone," reports ncbussafety.org. Children should remain 10 steps away from the bus on all sides unless boarding. Children should always cross the street in front of the bus. Before crossing, it is important to make sure all vehicles are stopped. If an object is dropped, children should not go back and get it.
Returning
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Children should not talk to strangers or approach them while walking home from the bus stop. If an incident occurs, children should run home immediately and tell a parent.
Driving
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People should slow down and keep a look out for children and buses during peak school hours. The NHTSA reminds drivers that passing a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing is unlawful. Know your state's traffic laws concerning the passing of school buses.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Fotolia.com, courtesy of Lombok