5 back to school driving safety tips for the considerate driver

5 back to school driving safety tips for the considerate driver

Schools are going back and this means learners will be back on the road. As a driver, whether you’re transporting learners or driving by yourself, these are some tips to remember to ensure you keep schoolchildren safe.

Look out for hidden children 

Be extra cautious while you’re driving near schools or public transport hubs. Children can often be hidden behind taxis or busses and step out into the road without you having seen them. When coming up on a taxi rank, bus stop, school drop-off zone or train station, make sure to slow down and stay focused.

Make sure your kids are buckled up 

If you’re a parent or a driver transporting learners to school, make sure they are all buckled up before hitting the road. It is easy to get flustered on a big school run and forget to remind your kids to strap in. Make this a habit by refusing to leave the driveway or stop until everyone has their seatbelt on. This way you and the kids won’t forget.

Be cautious and courteous to cyclists 

While this should be something done for all cyclists, take extra care as some learners cycle to school. Afford them enough space on the road and don’t pass to close as this can give them a scare and knock them off their bikes.

Drive slow near schools

This is mandated by law but not often followed carefully enough. Driving over 30km near a school is reckless, no matter what time of day it is. While the early morning or late afternoon may seem like a less dangerous time, school kids who are finishing extra-murals or who were dropped off early could still be around.

Be considerate of taxis (even though they aren’t of you) 

While minibus taxis are the bain of most South African driver’s existences, they are a key transport option for many school-goers. While this is harrowing as they drive so recklessly, don’t use your anger to further endanger the situation. While blocking a taxi from overtaking or driving slower in front of it may feel great, the tactics used to outmanoeuvre you will likely further harm those inside it should an accident occur. Rather, just move out of the way and keep a safe distance.

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