Back To School Safety Tips For Portland, Oregon Parents

August is an exciting time of year as Portland parents prepare to send children back to school. Amidst shopping and other preparations, our Portland personal injury attorneys encourage you to be aware of pedestrian accident risks and tips that can help keep young students safe.    

Preventing Pedestrian Accidents During The School Year

August 30, 2022 is the first day of classes for students in the Portland Public Schools. Whether your child will walk, take the bus, or get dropped off at school, take time now to discuss safety precautions. 

According to the National Safety Council, pedestrian accidents involving children spike at the beginning of the school year. The following offers safety tips for parents: 

If Your Child Walks To School

Walking to school provides great exercise, but students do need to be aware of potential hazards. Steps you can take as a parent to help keep them safe include: 

• Review the route they take in advance and avoid areas with heavy traffic;
• Emphasize the importance of remaining on sidewalks at all times;
• Encourage them to only cross at designated crosswalks, preferably those with a crossing guard;
• Advise them to avoid ear buds or other distractions, which could cause them not to notice honking horns or other signs of an imminent crash. 

If Your Child Takes The Bus

Buses often get a bad rap but the reality is they are among the safest ways to get to and from school. While school bus accidents in Oregon can happen, the bigger risk is while waiting or when getting off the school bus. Make sure children are aware of standard safety precautions: 

• Avoid having to rush or run to bus stops, which increases pedestrian accident risks;
• Wait in an orderly fashion and at least six paces back from the curb;
• Do not step forward until the bus comes to a complete stop;
• When getting off the bus, either at school or when coming home after, avoid crossing behind the bus if possible and always make sure the driver sees you before stepping into the street. 

When Parents Drive Children To School

Driving to school may seem the safest way to go, but the fact is that both car crashes and pedestrian accidents are common. To protect your own child and others on the road, follow these tips: 

• Allow yourself time to fully awaken when driving children to school;
• Be alert to other children walking in the neighborhood, particularly near bus stops;
• Keep in mind that lower speeds are mandatory in school zones;
• Pick up and drop off your child in designated areas only and avoid having them walk across the parking lot or busy streets. 

Reach Out To Our Portland Personal Injury Attorneys

At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we help protect parents and their children when personal injuries happen due to pedestrian accidents or other causes. To get the trusted legal guidance you need, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our office online and request a consultation with our Portland personal injury attorneys.