Slow down-Back to school means sharing the road

National Strategy on Highway Safety 
School days bring congestion: School buses are picking up their passengers, kids on bikes are hurrying to get to school before the bell rings, harried parents are trying to drop their kids off before work. It’s never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention than when kids are present – especially before and after school. The National Safety Council (NSC) has the following tips for back-to-school safety.
If you’re dropping off: Schools often have very specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids. The following apply to all school zones:
• Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
• Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school
• Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school
Practice school bus safety: According to research by the NSC, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are four to seven years old, and they’re walking. They are hit by the bus, or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus.
The Michigan State Police encourages parents to share these essential tips with kids:
• Pick a safe spot: Choose a safe waiting area away from traffic and streets.
• Buddy up: Always walk to the bus stop with a friend.
• Stay calm: Avoid running or playing while waiting for the bus.
• Stay visible: Never go behind the bus and stay in the driver’s view.
• Wait for the signal: Don’t board until the bus stops and the driver signals.
• Cross safely: Follow traffic signals and crossing guards.
• Be cautious: Don’t talk to strangers, and let parents know if approached.
• Stay in sight: Never enter a stranger’s vehicle.
Motorists, need to pay attention too. For drivers, it’s crucial to follow the state’s school bus stop laws:
• Yellow lights: Slow down when the bus’s yellow lights flash.
• Red lights: Stop at least 20 feet away when red lights flash. Wait for the bus to move and the driver’s signal.
• Hazard lights: Be cautious when hazard lights near the bus’s headlights flash.