As summer comes to an end, families across Pennsylvania and New Jersey are preparing for a new school year. School buses are back on the roads, children are walking to and from school, and neighborhoods become much busier during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times.

At Galfand Berger LLP, we know that the excitement of a new school year should never be overshadowed by a preventable accident. Whether you’re a parent, driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian, everyone plays a role in keeping our children safe.

Slow Down in School Zones

One of the easiest and most important ways to prevent accidents is to reduce your speed in school zones. Children may unexpectedly dart into the street while chasing a ball, cross outside of designated crosswalks, or become distracted by friends or electronic devices.

Always obey posted school zone speed limits and be especially alert during arrival and dismissal times.

Put Away the Phone

Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. Sending a text, checking GPS, or even changing a playlist can take your attention away from the road at the exact moment a child steps into your path.

When driving near schools or neighborhoods, keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your phone out of reach.  

Watch for School Buses

School buses make frequent stops, and children often cross the street after exiting the bus. Drivers should:

• Stop whenever required by state law when a school bus extends its stop arm and activates its flashing red lights.
• Never attempt to pass a stopped school bus illegally.
• Be patient and allow children plenty of time to safely cross the street.

Ignoring school bus safety laws can have devastating consequences.

Teach Children Safe Walking Habits

Parents can help reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents by reminding children to:

• Cross only at designated crosswalks or intersections.
• Look left, right, and left again before crossing.
• Make eye contact with drivers whenever possible.
• Avoid using phones or wearing headphones while crossing streets.
• Walk on sidewalks whenever available.

Even older students benefit from regular reminders about pedestrian safety.

Bike and Scooter Safety Matters

Many students ride bicycles or scooters to school. Before the first day, make sure children:

• Wear a properly fitted helmet every ride.
• Follow traffic signals and signs.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Use lights and reflective gear when visibility is limited.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions.

Drivers should always leave adequate space when passing bicyclists and remain aware of children riding near schools and residential neighborhoods.

Be Extra Careful During Drop-Off and Pick-Up

School parking lots and drop-off areas can become congested quickly. Parents should:

• Follow the school’s designated traffic pattern.
• Never double-park or stop in crosswalks.
• Watch carefully for children walking between vehicles.
• Avoid making U-turns near schools unless permitted.
• Keep children on the curb until it is safe to exit the vehicle.

A few extra minutes of patience can help prevent a serious injury.

Every Child Deserves a Safe Journey to School

Most back-to-school accidents are preventable. By slowing down, eliminating distractions, and staying alert, we can all help protect students as they travel to and from school each day.

Unfortunately, accidents do still happen. When a child or family is injured because someone failed to drive safely or acted negligently, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be overwhelming.

At Galfand Berger LLP, we have spent decades advocating for injured individuals and their families throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. We are committed to helping our communities stay safe while standing up for those whose lives have been changed by preventable accidents.

As students head back to the classroom this fall, let’s all do our part to make sure every child arrives safely—because nothing is more important than protecting our children.

Have Questions? Contact Galfand Berger LLP

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the team at Galfand Berger LLP is here to help. Contact us to learn more about your legal options and how we may be able to assist. Call 800-222-USWA (8792) or complete our online form for a free consultation. We have offices in Philadelphia and Reading.