SAFETY FIRST AS SCHOOL STARTS
Drivers need to be cautious
Every day, they travel the equivalent of 10 times around the world. And Alberta’s school buses will be back on the road next week.
So the province’s school and government officials are reminding motorists to drive cautiously when they see children and their buses back on streets and highways.
“Heading back to school is an exciting time for kids,” points out Brian Mason, the province’s transportation minister. “Parents and educators should talk to them about road safety so they understand their role in safely getting to school and home at the end of the day.”
But drivers must also remember to put on the brakes when they see children or buses heading to school. One of the most common accidents, officials say, is rearend collisions with school buses.
Flashing amber lights means the bus is slowing down for a stop, they point out. Flashing red lights mean traffic in both directions must stop. The penalty for failing to stop is six demerits and a $543 fine.
And the first week back at school is the most dangerous, insurance officials report. Sept. 5 has become one of the highest-claim days of the year.
Allstate Canada insurance analysts suggest distracted driving is one of the main causes. In Edmonton, they note, the number of distracteddriving tickets is reported to have increased 60 per cent so far this year.
To avoid the dangers of distractions, they urge motorists to plan their route ahead of time, get comfortable before they start driving, and keep the volume low enough that they can hear what’s happening outside.
Focus on the road, they add, and don’t let your mind wander onto issues like what to make for dinner. Follow @DMabellHerald on Twitter