As the new school year begins, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are reminding all road users to practice the 'ABCs' of school zone safety: stay Alert for Bicyclists and watch for and yield to Children crossing the street. With increased traffic around campuses during drop-off and pick-up times, along with children biking and walking, this message is more crucial than ever.
Drivers play a pivotal role in protecting vulnerable road users, as children outside vehicles lack the protections afforded to drivers and passengers. The OTS advises drivers to take their time, be patient, and always obey speed limits, especially in school zones. Extra caution is needed at crosswalks and intersections, where children may be present. Distracted driving, even a quick glance at a phone, can have tragic consequences, and driving under the influence is never acceptable. Drivers should also adjust to weather conditions, such as rain or fog, and when passing bicyclists, they must wait until it is safe and provide at least three feet of clearance.
Pedestrians are encouraged to take an active role in their safety. They should use sidewalks whenever possible, and if none exist, walk facing traffic to see oncoming vehicles. Crossing outside of crosswalks is discouraged; instead, pedestrians should use marked crosswalks and look both ways before stepping into the street. Making eye contact with drivers at intersections ensures they are seen. When walking in low-light conditions, wearing bright or reflective clothing and carrying a light increases visibility. Staying alert is vital—avoiding headphones and phone use while crossing busy roads can prevent accidents.
Bicyclists, including those on e-bikes, can reduce their risk by staying alert and visible. Planning routes along bike paths or roads with dedicated bike lanes away from heavy traffic is recommended. Bicycles should be equipped with lights and reflectors, and riders should wear properly fitted helmets and bright clothing. Learning hand signals for turns and stops helps communicate intentions to drivers, and yielding to pedestrians is a must. For e-bike users, additional precautions are necessary. E-bikes can reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles, increasing the risk of severe injury. Parents and guardians should be aware of local laws regarding e-bike use for minors, ensure riders under 18 wear helmets (required for Class 1-2, and all riders on Class 3), and note that riders must be at least 16 years old for Class 3 e-bikes. E-bikes without pedals may be classified as e-motos and could be illegal on roads, so it's important to verify regulations. Riding in bike lanes and being predictable are key safety measures.
By adhering to these guidelines, the community can ensure that every trip to and from school is a safe one. For more information and resources, visit Go Safely California.
