Driving Safely Around Children
When driving near children, extra caution is essential to ensure their safety, as children may be unpredictable and unaware of traffic dangers. Whether near schools, parks, or residential areas, following proper driving practices can help prevent accidents and create a safer environment for everyone.
School Zones: Slow Down and Stay Alert
The speed limit in school zones is typically 25 mph when children are present, but some areas may have limits as low as 15 mph. Drivers must pay close attention to these posted limits, especially when children are outside or crossing streets.
- Look for Crossing Guards: Obey the directions of school safety patrols or crossing guards. These individuals are there to protect children and direct traffic safely.
- Prepare for Sudden Stops: School buses often make frequent stops to load or unload children. Be alert for flashing yellow lights indicating the bus is about to stop, and always stop when red lights are flashing.
Bus Safety Rules
When a school bus stops to let children on or off, California law requires that you stop your vehicle until all children are safely across the street. This rule applies to drivers approaching the bus from either direction unless the road is divided by a median or multiple lanes.
- Yellow Lights: When a bus flashes yellow lights, it is preparing to stop. Drivers must slow down and prepare to stop as well.
- Red Lights: If the bus flashes red lights, you must stop your vehicle from either direction until the children have crossed safely. Passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights can result in a fine of up to $1,000.
Driving in Residential Areas
Children can be found playing or walking in residential areas, so it’s important to remain vigilant when driving through neighborhoods. Kids may chase a ball into the street or appear suddenly from between parked cars.
- Watch for Kids: Children may not always follow the rules of the road, so be extra cautious when they are near the roadway.
- Slow Down: In residential areas, the speed limit is often lower, typically 25 mph, unless otherwise posted. Reduce your speed when necessary to ensure you can stop quickly if a child runs into the street.
Unattended Children in Vehicles
In California, it is illegal to leave a child under the age of six unattended in a vehicle without the supervision of someone at least 12 years old. This is especially dangerous on hot days, as the temperature inside a parked car can rise rapidly, putting the child at risk of heatstroke or worse.
Conclusion
Driving near children requires extra caution and awareness. By reducing your speed, following school zone and bus safety rules, and staying alert in residential areas, you can help ensure that children stay safe while traveling to school or playing outdoors.
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