BOISE – Idaho drivers may notice something different about their commute these days – schoolkids walking through neighborhoods and waiting for the bus. AAA is reminding drivers to be extra careful as everyone adjusts to the new routine.
“Going back to school can be exciting or nerve-wracking, and some kids are experiencing it for the first time,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Drivers, please build extra time into your trip so that you won’t be tempted to speed in residential neighborhoods and school zones.”
AAA reminds drivers to never overtake a stopped school bus with flashing lights – it’s dangerous and illegal. Drivers should also watch for kids crossing the street and darting in-between cars.
Parents and grandparents can teach their kids how to safely wait for the bus:
- Stay back from the curb and street until the bus arrives. Never participate in horseplay at the bus stop.
- Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop and for the driver to signal before entering the road.
- Find a seat quickly.
- Remain seated until the bus arrives at the school.
“The old adage was to look both ways before crossing the street. Now, we urge pedestrians to look left, then right, and then left again, because the closest cars will usually approach from the left,” Conde said. “While drivers bear the primary responsibility to watch out for bicyclists and pedestrians, we always have better results when safety is a partnership.”