As the new school year kicks off, traffic around school campuses is set to increase, bringing with it a heightened need for vigilance among drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are reminding everyone to practice their “ABCs” on every trip: stay Alert for Bicyclists and watch for and yield to Children crossing the street. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that students arrive at school safely.
Drivers play a crucial role in protecting vulnerable road users, as children outside vehicles lack the protections afforded to those inside. Key tips for drivers include taking time to be patient, always adhering to speed limits, and exercising extra caution at crosswalks and intersections, especially near schools. Distracted driving is a significant hazard; even a quick glance at a phone can have tragic consequences. Additionally, drivers should never operate a vehicle while impaired and should adjust their driving to weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or darkness. When encountering bicyclists, drivers must wait for a safe opportunity to pass, allowing at least three feet of space.
Pedestrians also have a responsibility for their own safety. They should use sidewalks whenever possible, and if none are available, walk facing traffic to maintain visibility. Crossing outside of designated crosswalks is discouraged; instead, pedestrians should use marked or signalized crosswalks. Before crossing, it is essential to look both ways and make eye contact with drivers, especially if vehicles are stopped or turning. For those walking in low-light conditions, wearing bright or reflective clothing and using a light can increase visibility. Staying alert is crucial, so pedestrians should avoid wearing headphones or using phones while crossing busy roads.
Bicyclists, including those on e-bikes, need to prioritize visibility and awareness. Planning routes that utilize bike paths or dedicated bike lanes can reduce interactions with vehicle traffic. Equipping bicycles with lights and reflectors, wearing properly fitted helmets and bright clothing, and learning hand signals for turning and stopping are all recommended practices. Bicyclists should always yield to pedestrians and stay aware of their surroundings.
With the growing popularity of e-bikes among young people, it is essential to understand the specific risks they pose. E-bikes can travel at speeds up to 20 mph for Class 1 and 2, and up to 28 mph for Class 3, increasing the severity of potential crashes. Parents and guardians should be aware of local laws regarding e-bike use for minors, as these can vary. Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 on Class 1-2 e-bikes and for all riders on Class 3 e-bikes. Additionally, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike. It is important to note that e-bikes without pedals may be classified as e-motos and may not be legally permitted on roads. Riders should stick to bike lanes or legal paths, avoid traffic when possible, and be predictable in their movements. For more information on these safety tips, visit GoSafelyCA.org.
