Back to school safetfy
Tuesday, August 16, 2016 9:45 am As summer comes to an end and the classroom roll call begins, 50 million children across the United States will head back to school. With 13 percent of those school children typically walking or biking to school, AAA warns drivers to be especially vigilant for pedestrians before and after school hours. The afternoon hours are particularly dangerous for walking children - over the last decade, nearly one-third of child pedestrian fatalities occurred between 3 and 7 p.m. "For drivers, it may come as a surprise to see school buses and children walking near schools after the summer break, but that's why it's so important to be extra cautious," said Stephanie Milani, Tennessee Public Affairs Director, AAA - The Auto Club Group. "Motorists can do two simple things to help protect children. First, slow down. The difference between 25 mph and 35 mph can save a life. Second, stay alert. Taking your eyes off the road for just two seconds doubles your chance of crashing." AAA offers six ways to keep kids safe this school year: 1. Slow down. 2. Eliminate distractions. 3. Reverse responsibly. Every vehicle has blind spots. Check for children on the sidewalk, driveway and around your vehicle before slowly backing up. Teach your children to never play in, under or around vehicles--even those that are parked. 4. Talk to your teen. 5. Come to a complete stop. 6. Watch for bicycles. Find videos, expert advice and safety tips at ShareTheRoad.AAA.com.
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