Back-to-school season is upon us. By now, most families have begun to adjust to the early morning drop-off and late afternoon pickups. School zones can be busy and hectic as families drop their kids off at school. Many schools have tried to adjust to these risks by implementing strict rules. However, school zone safety is still a priority, and here are a few tips:
Be Aware of Pedestrians
It’s better to assume that most pedestrians will not notice you. With more students having access to smartphones, they are more distracted than ever before. Get into the habit of stopping as you reach pedestrian zones, regardless of whether or not the pedestrian is supposed to be crossing the road.
Avoid Going Around Vehicles
It may be tempting to swerve around parked vehicles, especially if they’re taking longer than usual to drop off their child. Cars can easily block your views, especially when it comes to smaller children. Children often assume they’re safe to cross when in school zones, meaning they may just dart out into the road and in front of your vehicle.
Avoid Distractions
It’s important to also avoid your own distractions. School mornings can be busy, and you may be tempted to reach for your smartphone when it’s ringing, but this reduces your attention.
Follow Your School’s Drop-Off and Pick-Up Rules
Many schools have put strict rules in place when it comes to drop-off and pick-up zones. These rules are for the safety of your child and the other kids in the school.
It can also be helpful to go into the school year knowing that it may take time for everyone to learn the rules. Parents are teaching their children how to safely cross the road. Parents are even learning how to safely navigate the school zones. Giving yourself a few extra minutes in the mornings, at least for a few weeks, can help everyone adjust.
People tend to make more mistakes when rushed. You may be more willing to use your smartphone or drive around parked vehicles or school buses when you’re in a rush and late for work. Children may be more likely to run across the parking lot without looking if they’re late for class. Make sure everyone has sufficient time to avoid the risks of school zones.
Was Your Child Injured in a School Zone Accident?
School zone accidents can be difficult for a few reasons. For one, they sometimes take place on private property, which can make it hard to know who’s responsible. Local police may have limited options for enforcing school zone laws. Because of the hectic nature of school zone areas, it’s also not always easy to know who’s at fault.
Yet, school zone accidents can lead to painful injuries, including broken bones or cuts. Your child may also be fearful of drop-off and pick-up going forward. A lot of school zone accidents also lead to expensive property damage. If your child was injured in a school zone accident, it may be beneficial to discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer. The funds you may be entitled to in a personal injury case can help you and your child recover.
Contact a Linwood Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your School Injury Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a school zone car accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The Law Offices of Richard A. Stoloff represent clients injured because of a school accident in Egg Harbor, Somers Point, Linwood, Ocean City, and throughout New Jersey. Call (609) 957-6810 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 605 New Road, Linwood, NJ 08221, as well as an office in Philadelphia, PA.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.