All pedestrians who commute by walking face certain risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4,735 pedestrians died in traffic accidents in the United States in 2013. That same year, more than 150,000 pedestrians received treatment in emergency rooms for non-fatal injuries.
Children who walk to school are particularly susceptible to traffic accident injuries and fatalities. They are often curious, distracted and unsure how to avoid precarious situations.
If you have a child who walks to school, here are 4 safety tips that may help your young one avoid injuries:
- Walk in a group
- Wear bright clothing
- Be careful when crossing the street
- Use the sidewalk
Medical bills from pedestrian accidents can lead to overwhelming debt. This is where a personal injury lawyer may be able to help. If you or your child was injured by a negligent driver, contact a Birmingham accident attorney from Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. We can evaluate your case, gather evidence, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Here are four ways to help your child stay safe while walking to school:
- Walk in a Group
According to Parents Central, walking to school with your child is a great way to bond while getting exercise. It is also the perfect time to teach your young one how to be a safe pedestrian.
Children should never walk to school alone. If you are not available, try to find a responsible adult, or organize a group of kids to walk together. This will increase your kid’s visibility on the road, and the extra eyes can spot hazards.
- Wear Bright Clothing
The children and the adults who escort them to school should wear bright clothing to be more visible in traffic. Reflective vests are especially effective. If you are walking at night, always carry a lit flashlight.
- Be Careful When Crossing Streets
Children younger than 9 years old should never cross streets without adults. The safest place to cross is at a corner or intersection.
Most intersections on busy pedestrian routes have crosswalks and pedestrian traffic signals. Teach your children how to read these signals and why they are important. Also, remind your children to look left, right and left again before crossing the road – even if they have the right of way.
- Use the Sidewalk
According to Parents Central, you and your children should walk on a sidewalk when there is one alongside the road. Otherwise, walk facing traffic.
Walking is a safe and healthy way to get to school, but all it takes is one negligent driver to cause a tragedy. If you or your child was injured in a crash, contact a Birmingham accident attorney from Morris Bart & Associates, LLC. We can structure your claim and help you avoid mistakes such as accepting a low settlement offer. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 800-537-8185.