Personal Injury | September 13, 2021 by JOSHUA D. ANDERSON

Back to School Safety for Your Child

It is that time of the year when kids and parents are adjusting to the school season and new schedules. Whether your child attends Sumner-Bonney Lake School District or a private school, this is an adjustment from summer break, and injury risks exist. To help ensure your kids’ safety when they are traveling to and from school, here are some no-nonsense and easy safety tips to follow. If an injury happens to your child, contact a Bonney Lake personal injury attorney from Anderson Law, PLLC right away. 

 

Walking Safely

 

1. Kids must only walk or bike to school without adult supervision if they’re ready and old enough to walk safely. That being said, make sure to create and practice a safe walking plan with your kids until they know it well and know what to do in case of emergencies. Consider having an alternate route in case of emergencies where roads might be closed. You can refer to this guide to help you plan safe walking and/or biking routes for your kids.
2. Always opt for streets with sidewalks, crossing guards, and sidewalks, and avoid intersections whenever possible.
3. Have your kids walk together or with other kids if possible.
4. Make sure to speak to your kids about what they must do when a stranger approaches them.

 

Riding School Buses Safely

 

1. Kids riding school buses must learn and practice getting off and on the school bus safely.
2. Never run to the school bus and try to get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus arrives to avoid rushing.
3. Always wait for the bus to make a complete stop before even moving toward it.
4. When crossing the street, always look both ways to check for traffic and wait for the bus driver’s signal.
5. To ensure that the driver always sees you, stay at least five or six steps away from it when waiting.
6. Wear the shoulder and lap belts if the bus has them, and stay in your seat once the bus starts moving.
7. Only get off the school bus at your designated stop.

 

For Parents: Driving to School Safely

 

1. Always be aware of kids walking or biking to and from the bus stop or school. Slow down when there are kids and buses nearby and follow all traffic rules.
2. Be on the lookout for kids that might be walking to a bus stop or the school when you back your car out of your driveway.
3. Be alert. Kids might sometimes cross the road without looking around for traffic.
4. Be extra careful on streets with on-street parking or those without crossing guards and/or sidewalks because it might be difficult to see kids behind a vehicle.

 

A Very Important Note on Covid-19 Safety

 

Follow the updated guidance on Covid-19 safety from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to ensure your kids’ safety while at school.

 

Seek Legal Guidance from an Experienced Bonney Lake Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or your child suffered injuries in an accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Anderson Law, PLLC, for help. You can call 253-862-1811 or fill out our online contact form to arrange your free case evaluation with our experienced Bonney Lake personal injury lawyer.

The information contained on this website is intended for informational purposes only, and is not legal advice. Nothing in this website establishes an attorney-client relationship between us. Different facts can dramatically affect a legal opinion. You should consult an attorney for legal advice that pertains to your personal situation.