The months of August and September typically mark the start of a new school year for children in Virginia and elsewhere throughout the country. As a motorist, it’s always important to scan the road for people, vehicles or objects that might be in your path. However, there are extra steps that you should take if you’re traveling during the early morning or late afternoon hours when schools are in session.
Children may walk or bike to school
Kids who live close to their schools may be allowed to walk or bike there, so there will be a significant number of young people on the road who may not be paying attention to their surroundings.
Show deference to school buses
If a school bus comes to a stop, you must also stop. Be patient when traveling behind busses or official vehicles since they will generally go no faster than the posted speed limit. Remaining patient while in the vicinity of a school may significantly reduce your risk of a motor vehicle accident.
Avoid distractions
It can be hard to focus on the roads in the bright sunlight of the morning. You may also have to contend with roads that could be covered by the leaves that are starting to fall from the trees. Further, as fall sets in, more rainstorms will occur in Virginia that make morning driving more difficult. You can make concentrating on road conditions easier by refraining from using your cellphone or talking to passengers.
Patience and attention to detail may help reduce your risk of an accident in or around a school zone. If you are involved in an accident caused by an inattentive or impatient driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and lost wages.