It’s that time again – back-to-school season! As backpacks get packed and families settle into new routines, the variety of traffic – pedestrians, bicycles, cars – rises sharply, especially near schools. This is a great moment for all of us, parents and drivers alike, to hit the pause button and talk safety.
Did you know that in Canada, pedestrian injuries are one of the top causes of injury-related deaths for children under 14? On average, over 30 children lose their lives and around 2,400 are seriously injured each year, with the majority of incidents happening in September and October.
Children are still growing – physically and mentally. Their shorter height can make it harder for drivers to spot them, and they’re still developing the judgment skills needed to navigate traffic safely.
Tips for Keeping Kids Safe
For kids:
- Always stop, look both ways, and listen before crossing – even if you’re in a familiar spot.
- Stick to sidewalks or use marked crossings with lights or crossing guards.
- Never dart into the street – cross safely and steadily.
- Make eye contact with drivers when crossing to be sure they see you.
- Avoid distractions – phones, headphones, or anything that takes your focus away from crossing safely.
- Wear helmets when biking, scooting, or skating.
Even teens aren’t immune – over half report being hit or nearly hit while walking, often while distracted. Let’s keep the message clear: awareness is key.
For drivers:
- Watch your speed and stay alert around school zones and neighborhoods.
- Always stop for school buses and use caution during drop-off and pick-up times.
- Be patient and eliminate distractions—no texting or calls behind the wheel.
Whether you’re parenting, driving, or just caring for your community, a little extra caution can go a long way. Let’s make this back-to-school season safe, calm, and happy for everyone. This WARDS LAWYERS PC publication is for general information only. It is not legal advice, nor is it intended to be. Specific or more information may be necessary before advice could be provided for your particular circumstances.