School is starting; drive carefully

LOS ANGELES — To help motorists, bicyclists and young pedestrians stay safe and aware as children return to the classrooms, the Automobile Club of Southern California is conducting its 75th annual “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” campaign.

National figures indicate that traffic collisions are the number one cause of death and injury for youngsters under 15. And this year in response to higher fuel costs, more school districts are reducing or eliminating bus transportation for students, shifting more driving to parents. At the same time, more bicyclists and motorcyclists are on the roadway in an effort to save gasoline, creating a challenging safety environment for all, according to the Auto Club.

To help keep everyone safe, the Auto Club has provided the following safety tips for specific groups on the road.

Motorists

• Drive slowly in and around school and residential areas. Pay extra attention near schools during the morning and afternoon hours.

• Obey school zone speed limit signs and come to a complete stop at all intersections.

• Always stop for school buses that are loading, or unloading, students.

• Drive with headlights on so children and other drivers can see you.

• Drive without distractions. Don’t use cell phones, eat, apply makeup or shave.

• Scan between parked cars as children could dart into the street near school zones, playgrounds, bus stops and in neighborhoods.

Pedestrians

• Children under age 10 should not cross the street alone.

• Cross only at corners so drivers can see you.

• Always use a crosswalk when available. But remember that painted lines can’t stop cars.

• Cross only on the new green light so there is time to cross safely.

• Use the intersection “walk/don’t walk” push-button. Cross with the “walk” sign only.

• Look all ways before crossing, watching for cars that are turning.

• Never cross the street from between cars.

• If sidewalks are not provided, walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic, to see oncoming cars.

• Use a flashlight or wear or carry something retro-reflective at night to help drivers see you.

Bicycle riders

• Keep bicycles in good mechanical condition.

• Obey all traffic rules and signs.

• Walk bikes across busy intersections.

• Be sure the road is clear before entering.

• Always ride single file and watch for opening car doors.

• Use the safest route to a destination. Avoid busy streets and intersections.

• Don’t carry passengers.

• For safety, all riders should wear a helmet.

Everyone

• Leave a little earlier so as to not rush to work or school.