Orange County Shares Back to School Pedestrian Safety Tips

Orange County, Fla. – As part of its ongoing effort to improve pedestrian safety, Orange County Public Works reminds drivers to be on the lookout this week for students walking to and from school.

With most schools beginning the new school year this week, these tips will help drivers avoid crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists.

• Obey speed limit in neighborhoods and school zones
• Yield to school buses and stop on divided roads
• Be alert and eliminate distractions while behind the wheel
• Watch for bicycles in addition to pedestrians
• Never pass a driver already stopped for a pedestrian
• Allow for at least three feet between your vehicle and a bicycle when passing
• Look out for new/inexperienced drivers near high schools

In addition, parents and other adults should educate children on how to stay safe when walking along busy roads.

• Always cross a busy street at an intersection or within a marked crosswalk
• Make eye contact with drivers and be sure to stop before crossing in front of vehicles
• When walking on a road without sidewalks, always walk on the left side facing oncoming traffic and keep as far left as possible
• Always look left, then right, then left again before crossing a street

Bicyclists also have a responsibility to use caution when riding along busy roads.

• Ride on the right side of the road with traffic
• Always wear a helmet and bright reflective clothing
• Obey traffic signals and signs
• Always use hand signals before turning or stopping
• Ride in a straight line without weaving

Source: The National Safety Council, 2022, (Back-to-School Safety for Drivers – National Safety Council (nsc.org)