School Run Driving Safety Tips

It’s that time of year again – children are back at school and there is a noticeable increase in the number of cars on the road. The school run is often fraught with many people rushing to get their children to school on time.

Research conducted by the (RoSPA) Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has show that there is an increase in accidents between 8 and 9am, and 4 and 6pm, which can be at least partly attributed to higher numbers of cars on the roads during the school run. We've put together some top tips to help you stay safe on the roads during this busy time.

Leave early

While it can sometimes be tricky to leave the house on time with children in tow, plan ahead, and ensure that you have plenty of time to complete your journey, even with the addition of unexpected obstacles, such as road works, accidents or slow moving vehicles.

Beware of children

Remember that children who are walking to school, or who are entering the school gates, may not be paying attention to traffic on the roads. Moderate your speed accordingly, and be sure to look around more frequently than normal.

Go slow

Many of the roads around schools are 20MPH. Even if those in your local area are not, be sure to slow down anyway. Children may cross in front of your vehicle unexpectedly, or you might have to stop suddenly to let other vehicles pass.

Park Responsibly  

The school gates are likely to be heavily congested at school drop off and pick up times. Park a reasonable distance away from the school, and walk the rest of the way. Adding to the number of vehicles at the school gates is not safe, will not save time, and is likely to leave you feeling stressed and flustered. Instead enjoy a short walk down to the school with your child.

Stay Calm

It’s easy to get frustrated when you’re stuck in traffic, especially when you’re rushing to drop your children off. Getting worked up will not benefit your driving, and may lead to your children arriving at school feeling flustered, too. Take a deep breath and wait for your turn to go.

Car Share

Reduce the amount of congestion on the roads by sharing the school run with other families in your neighbourhood. Not only will you be doing your bit towards keeping traffic manageable, but you also won’t have to do the school run every day!

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