The end of summer marks a busy and exciting time for families—children are preparing to return to school, and parents are bustling with preparation. Amidst the rush, it's essential to remember that August is National Traffic Awareness Month, a timely reminder to prioritize road safety as traffic volume increases during the back-to-school season.

Increased Presence of Young Pedestrians

• With schools reopening, more children will be walking or biking to school. This means greater pedestrian activity, especially in residential areas and around schools. It's crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and obey school zone speed limits.

Understanding School Bus Stop Laws

• School buses are making frequent stops, with children often crossing roads to board or depart. Drivers must be extra cautious around stopped buses and adhere to local stop sign laws to ensure the safety of young passengers.

Navigating Chaotic School Zones

• School drop-off and pick-up times can create chaotic and congested conditions. Patience and alertness are vital in these zones to safeguard children and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Being Considerate of New Student Drivers

• With the school season underway, there are more new, student drivers on the roads. Providing them with additional space and understanding can greatly aid in their driving development.

Equipping Children with Safety Awareness

• Parents play a critical role in traffic safety by teaching their children about using crosswalks, the importance of helmet use, and the dangers of phone distractions while walking or cycling.

A few mindful changes in daily routines can make a significant impact on road safety. Remember, safety is a collective responsibility—let's lead by example and make this season a little safer for everyone.