lewis law group

Unfortunately, lives are lost everyday due to reckless driving, and distracted drivers and pedestrians, among other reasons. As parents and adults, it is important to use the roadways cautiously, not only for ourselves, but also for the children who may not be looking out for themselves. With school being open again now, we want to share some pertinent information regarding road safety and children.  

The greatest risk to a child isn’t riding a bus, but approaching or leaving one. Students are protected under the law as it is illegal for drivers to pass a school bus while dropping off or picking up passengers. As a reminder for drivers, here are the rules regarding you and school buses as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Yellow flashing lights mean slow down — don’t speed up — because the bus is preparing to stop. There are likely students waiting to get on the bus or parents waiting nearby to pick up children. 
• Red flashing lights mean stop — and wait at least 20 feet behind the bus — because children are getting on or off the school bus. Remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop-arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving.
• Even when the lights aren’t flashing, watch for children, particularly in the morning or mid-afternoon, around school arrival and dismissal times. Be alert as you back out of a driveway, or drive through a neighborhood, school zone or bus stop.

On April 25, 2019, Wanda Moore of WPTV in West Palm Beach reported that more than 10,000 drivers in Florida passed a school bus illegally in just one day, according to a survey by the Florida Department of Education. As a parent, this number should not only be shocking but worrisome. You play a crucial role in getting your child to understand the importance of road safety rules for their own protection. Here are the most basic tips:

• Your child should be at least five steps from the curb. 
• Wait until the bus has halted completely and the driver gives the okay to board. 
• Always sit face-forward.
• Unboard the bus after it comes to a full stop. 
• Always look left, then right, then left again for oncoming vehicles before attempting to cross the street. 

For those who do not take the school bus, walking or biking may be the preferred choice. As with every choice, there are some rules to be observed to avoid accidents:

• Never play in the road.
• The sidewalks should always be utilized. If there are no sidewalks, walk in the direction of oncoming traffic.
• Use pedestrian crossings when crossing the road.
• Always wear a fitted helmet when biking.
• Avoid using your phone while walking or riding. Phones are a distraction.

The Lewis Law Group, P.A. has over 38 years of experience in representing victims of Florida motor-vehicle accidents. We never want anyone to be a victim of a road incident, especially a child. If your child has been in this unfortunate situation, we believe that you and your child deserve full compensation. Don’t settle with the insurance companies to avoid pressure, don’t throw away your rights to fair treatment and compensation. Your Case Evaluation is FREE. Let The Lewis Law Group help you take control. Our children need to always be properly protected. Contact us here today and see how passionate we are about your claim, and at the same time compassionate about your child’s injury.