A school bus stop is usually considered a safe place for children to gather before school. However, because many stops are located along busy roadways, they can also pose dangers. Parents naturally want to know their children are safe, but lack of supervision at the stop and distracted drivers on the road can create risky situations.
Last fall in Texas, a driver failed to stop for a school bus at a bus stop. Fortunately, no children were injured, but the incident served as a stark reminder about the dangers surrounding bus stops. Therefore, parents should take proactive steps to ensure their child’s safety.
Teach Children Good Safety Habits
Parents may not be able to supervise their kids at the bus stop every day. Nevertheless, they can help children develop safe habits. Before the school year begins, walk your child to the bus stop and point out potential hazards.
Measure out a safe distance from the street by having kids take three large steps away from the curb. Teach children how to use crosswalk signals and how to safely walk across the street.
Crossing the Street Safely
Drivers may not always see a school bus stop ahead and may be unprepared to stop. In addition, stops without designated crosswalks can reduce visibility for both children and drivers.
Children should wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the crossing arm fully extends before stepping into the street. Encourage kids to make eye contact with the bus driver and nearby vehicles before crossing. This visual check reinforces safety habits and helps prevent accidents.
When Accidents Happen
Parents cannot predict every danger. However, if a child is injured due to someone else’s negligence, consulting an experienced attorney may help protect your family’s rights. By teaching children safe bus stop habits and modeling caution, parents can reduce risks and build lasting safety awareness.
Source: SafeKids.org
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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