When every parent transports their child by private vehicle, there’s a morning and afternoon rush of cars waiting in line. Depending on how the school’s campus was designed, it’s possible that some parents may not be clear on how the pick-up and drop-off system works. This creates added chaos. Here are a few reminders for all parents when it comes to transporting their child to and from school:

Watch for Students Constantly

Every child’s safety is a number one priority. Parents have to keep this in mind when driving around school roads, parking lots, or driveways. For example, just because there are crossing guards, doesn’t mean an unattended child won’t cross the road at any moment. Constantly observing your surroundings is key. While screaming children in your vehicle could lead to distractions, it’s important to keep everyone safe and proceed in your vehicle with caution at all times.

Avoid Stopping in Crosswalks

Lines for picking up and dropping off students tend to wrap around street corners this time of year. While this can lead to impatient drivers, it’s important to remain calm and remember standard traffic guidelines. If there’s a crosswalk between you and the vehicle in front of you, leave room for pedestrians to cross.

Don’t Take Shortcuts

Pick-up and drop-off zones exist for a reason. Parents trying to save time by dropping a student off on a street near the school only creates more danger. Trying to rush the pick-up/drop-off process could result in the following consequences:

  • Your child approaching the wrong vehicle

  • Your child  crossing a busy street

  • Other parents following your lead, creating more congestion

  • Traffic citation from local authorities

While dropping your child off on the side of the road might save you time you’re also jeopardizing their safety.

Solutions for Conquering Pick-up & Drop-off Zones

When school first comes into session, the transportation process can be hectic. Here are three helpful tips to combating the morning and afternoon school rush:

  1. Carpool – do you have a  neighbor that drops their child off at the same school? Carpooling helps eliminate the number of cars on the road headed to school in the morning. Much like adults carpooling to work in the city, this strategy not only decreases traffic, it’s also green friendly!
  2. Walk/Bike – if you’re close enough to campus, a car ride may not be necessary. If your child is old enough, they may be able to walk to school alone. 
  3. Find Information –often officials will release a game plan for taking your child to school. This could include organized drop-off times, how traffic should flow, what to do in the event of inclement weather, etc.  Signing up for email newsletters or automated phone calls could help you strategize an effective way for transporting your student to school.

Compensation for Accident Victims

Were you or a loved one affected by an accident that took place during school transportation? At Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., our team of experienced attorneys is here to help! Whether you were injured as a pedestrian or a motor vehicle driver, we’ll strive to find you the compensation you deserve. To sign up for a free consultation, contact our team today!