CALLING
ALL DRIVERS!
SCHOOL HAS STARTED!
PAY ATTENTION!
Our most valuable resource, our kids, are out there, so watch out!
Kids are killed every year because they dart between cars, don't use crosswalks, and run around not paying attention. As motorists, we have to be "extra" observant as we go about our driving routines. Resist the urge to speed or break traffic rules because you didn't plan ahead and are running late.
Know all traffic rules concerning school zones and traffic flows. Remember, ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Drive your route and get familiar with the various speed zones. Be aware of how long it takes you to get where you are going by factoring in the school zones and bus routes. If you get angry behind a school bus, take a different route. Picture your child or grandchild's face in those bus windows.
Know school bus safety rules. These big yellow vehicles transport our most precious commodity. When a school bus stops and flashes red lights, traffic approaching from either direction must stop before reaching the bus (in some places you even have to stop if there is a median dividing the road). Buses can be easily identified by signage and color. Be prepared to slow down, and possibly stop, whenever you see a school bus. School buses stop before crossing railroad tracks.
You must remain stopped for a school bus until the red lights stop flashing or until the bus driver or police officer directs you to proceed.
Before proceeding, watch carefully for children on the side of the road and drive cautiously. Children get excited and don't always pay attention.
Remember who is riding on a school bus. We have all seen crazy and irresponsible driving behavior on the part of some drivers to “hurry up and pass a school bus”.
Refrain from using your cell phone, palm or any other distraction while around school zones. This approach is only common sense whenever we are behind the wheel, but especially when driving in an area where there are children and their actions are often unpredictable.
If you end up behind a school bus, take a deep breath, be patient and appreciate that there are laws to protect our kids and next time choose another route, even if it is out of your way. It is better to leave the house a little earlier than to be responsible for an unfortunate event.
Everyone is very sad when a child dies because someone didn't pay attention, so heads up and be vigilant.
Sharon Campbell is a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) who owns A New Creation Women’s Clinic. Well versed in Women’s Health, her emphasis is on reproductive and gynecological health. Sharon can be reached at: 293-1117.
© 2008 Good News Tucson™
