According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 6 school-age children die as a passenger on a school bus each year. When compared to the more than 42,000 people that are killed in other types of motor vehicle crashes each year this number makes school bus travel a much safer choice.
Buses are made with small children in mind that will most likely move around a lot. The compact seats and extra padding provided on the seats makes it so that if a bus is in an accident the child will have extra protection by being contained in a small space that can absorb extra impact. However, there are some general safety tips all children should learn from an early age so that they will be even more protected.
School Bus Safety Tips:
• Always walk small children to and from the bus stop. The state of Georgia has seen a spike in pedestrian deaths recently. Any Savannah injury attorney will tell you that the biggest risk for children riding a school bus is being struck and injured while getting on or off the bus.
• Make sure children are aware of the proper way to get on and off the bus once they are at the bus stop. If they have to cross the street make sure they know to wait to make eye contact with the bus driver for guidance.
• Always wear a seatbelt. Some school buses do not provide seatbelts for different reasons, but your child should be aware that wearing your seatbelt is important when they are available.
• Sit back against your seat and face forward. Children love to play and might be too young to realize that a school bus isn’t the appropriate place to do that.
• Do not put your hands or objects out the window. Not only should children not be standing while the bus is moving, but buses are a lot taller than normal cars and it’s easy for tree limbs and other objects to brush the side of the bus which could cause injury.
• Listen to and obey the bus driver. Children should be taught to treat the bus driver with respect and know that they are in charge on the bus.
Teaching children from a young age how important school bus safety is will ensure that it’s a habit they continue to follow through grade school. Maintaining similar guidelines when they are traveling in the family car will make it easier for them to stay consistent and avoid bus accidents.
Teaching children from a young age how important school bus safety is will ensure that it’s a habit they continue to follow through grade school. Maintaining similar guidelines when they are traveling in the family car will make it easier for them to stay consistent and avoid bus accidents.
