AAA Texas release safety driving tips as kids return to school

AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — As students return to campus, the roads surrounding schools will experience increased traffic, creating more danger for students traveling to and from school.

According to AAA Texas, wrecks are one of the leading causes of death among kids in school, as students walk, ride bikes, or travel to and from school.

“Every child deserves a safe journey to and from school,” said AAA Texas Communications Manager Doug Shupe. “Back to school means back to vigilance. Let’s protect our kids by driving with care and intention.”

The hours after school are the most dangerous, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 1/3 of child pedestrian deaths happen between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., when students are walking home. NHTSA reports that last year, 768 pedestrians and 78 bicyclists died on Texas roads, along with several injured.

Officials ask drivers to use caution in school zones and neighborhoods, as children’s size often makes them harder to spot, they are more likely to be distracted, and also have an unawareness of traffic risks.

AAA Texas detailed that distracted driving remains a factor in fatal wrecks, claiming 380 lives last year in Texas and 3,275 lives nationwide in 2023. Speeding is another major factor in wrecks resulting in deaths, with 1,466 deaths in Texas last year. Officials noted that school zone speed limits are set for a reason, as a pedestrian hit at 25 mph is two-thirds less likely to be killed than someone hit at 35 mph.

Safety Tips for Drivers

• Put down the phone—distractions can be deadly.
• Slow down—especially in school zones.
• Watch for bikes—give at least 3 feet of space.
• Talk to teens—after-school hours are high-risk.
• Stop fully at stop signs—don’t roll through.
• Respect school buses—red lights mean stop.

Tips for Parents & Guardians

• Walk school routes with kids and point out hazards.
• Teach kids to avoid phones and headphones while walking.
• Encourage eye contact with drivers before crossing.
• Ensure bike helmets are worn and fitted properly.
• Reinforce safe behavior around traffic and buses.

For more information about AAA Texas’s Back to School, Back to Safety campaign, visit the AAA Texas website.