WASHINGTON--August 24, 2012: Grade-schoolers heading back to classrooms after a long summer break have a lot to think about: What room am I in? Will there be lots of homework? Who will be my lunch buddy?
They may be excited to see a friend and totally forget about where to cross streets at safe crosswalks. They may be walking and talking and maybe even texting and not paying attention to traffic.
GEICO urges teen drivers, particularly new teen drivers, to be on high alert for young students on their way to and from school and near playgrounds and parks.
Some important tips for teen drivers:
- Be aware of school zones. There may be several school zones on your morning and afternoon route; remember where they are and slow down for the reduced speed limits.
- Expect the unexpected. Children are unpredictable. They haven't all mastered safe behaviors.
- Slow down near playgrounds and parks. Play areas are filled with excitement which means children without thinking may run into the street chasing balls or toys.
- Know the rules about school buses. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children. Always stay a safe distance away and be prepared for frequent stops. Do not tailgate.
- Be patient. There will be more traffic with school buses and parent car pools. Give yourself extra driving time so you won't try to make up the time due to any school day delays.
- Pay particular attention at alleys and driveways. Kids on bikes can come darting out without stopping to look in all directions.
- Put down your phone. No texting. You don't need any added distractions when kids are in the neighborhood.
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States. GEICO handles auto insurance coverage for over 11 million private passenger auto policies and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).