With the schoolyear in full swing, many children and families across the country have likely gotten in the routine of walking to the bus stop and heading to school.
Although it's a simple practice of habit, it’s important to remember that school buses--and motor vehicles in general-- pose a dangerous threat to children who are waiting roadside for their ride.
We care deeply about our clients' safety. In honor of National School Bus Safety Week, here are some important facts and tips for parents and guardians to help keep their children safe.
Know the Facts
- Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of death for children. In 2019, school bus-related crashes accounted for109 deaths (CDC).
- While 6% of those fatalities were school bus passengers, 34% of injuries were school bus passengers (NSC).
- Students remain nearly 70 times more likely to get to school safely riding in a school bus over a regular passenger car (ASBC), but there is still an inherent risk.
- Riding a school bus is 50 times safer than riding in the passenger seat of a car with a teenage driver at the wheel. (Learn more about National Teen Driver Safety Week here)
Source: NAPT
Walking to the Bus Stop
- Walk with your child to the bus stop – always. If for some reason you can’t accompany your child, there is strength in numbers—make use of the buddy system. Oncoming drivers can more easily notice a group of people versus just one individual.
- Follow standard safety procedures when crossing streets or alleyways. If your child is still learning the rules of the road, exaggerate your head turns when looking left or right and narrate what you’re doing to instill those good safety habits.
At the Bus Stop
- Be there and be aware. Ensure that your child is at the bus stop when it arrives rather than in your home or down the street.
- Stay on the sidewalk with your child when waiting for the bus. Motor vehicle accidents can often be out of your control, so create a safe distance from other motorists while waiting for the morning bus.
Getting On and Off the Bus
- –If your child drops something when getting off the bus, it’s crucial that they first tell the bus driver before bending over to pick it up. School bus drivers’ views can be obstructed because of the size of the vehicle, so stress this practice to your children.
- Be sure your child watches their step and looks both ways when they get off the bus – just like they would do when crossing a street.
Mobile Devices
- Most of us have been on a school bus before, so we know it can be a bumpy ride. If your child has a cellphone or any kind of mobile device, it shouldn’t be in their hands while the bus is moving.
- Headphones, ear buds, or other listening devices should be used. Loud sounds could potentially create distractions for the driver.
According to the American School Bus Council, school buses are far safer than passenger vehicles in regards to potential accidents and preventing injuries. Following these best practices can help to make your child’s school bus routine safer.
Cory Watson’s personal injury attorneys fight to get justice and much-needed compensation for those injured by a negligent driver. Every case is our most important case, so call us today at 205-328-2200 or submit a 100% free case review to get started.
ABOUT CORY WATSON ATTORNEYS
Cory Watson Attorneys is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with offices in Birmingham, Alabama; Memphis, and Nashville, Tennessee. The firm has recovered more than $4 Billion for clients across the country. Cory Watson Attorneys are frequently at the forefront of major class actions and multidistrict litigations involving dangerous pharmaceuticals and product liability, and are often appointed to leadership positions in national cases. Firm practice areas include Personal Injury, Product Liability, Class Action, Asbestos, Business & Commercial Litigation, Dangerous Pharmaceuticals, Defective Medical Devices, and Environmental/Toxic Torts.