With the new school year underway, traffic around school campuses is increasing, bringing heightened risks for children walking, biking, and being dropped off. To address this, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are reminding all road users of their 'ABCs' – stay Alert for Bicyclists and watch for and yield to Children crossing the street. This initiative aims to reduce accidents and ensure students arrive safely.
Drivers play a critical role in protecting vulnerable road users. OTS advises drivers to take their time, be patient, and always obey speed limits, especially in school zones. Extra caution is needed at crosswalks and intersections where children may be present. Distracted driving, even a quick glance at a phone, can have tragic consequences, so drivers should avoid any distractions. Impaired driving is never acceptable, and adjusting driving to weather and visibility conditions is essential. When passing bicyclists, drivers must wait until it is safe and provide at least 3 feet of clearance, as required by law.
Pedestrians, particularly students, also share responsibility for their safety. The Go Safely California campaign encourages pedestrians to use sidewalks when available; if none exist, they should walk facing traffic. Crossing outside of crosswalks is discouraged; instead, use marked or signalized crosswalks. Before crossing, look both ways and make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you. When walking in low visibility, wearing bright or reflective clothing and carrying a light can make a significant difference. Staying alert and avoiding headphones or phone use while crossing busy roads is crucial for pedestrian safety.
Bicyclists, including those on e-bikes, are reminded to plan routes that use bike paths or dedicated lanes whenever possible. Equipping bicycles with lights and reflectors increases visibility, and wearing a properly fitted helmet and bright clothing is strongly recommended. Learning and using hand signals to communicate turns and stops helps prevent accidents. Bicyclists must always yield to pedestrians and stay aware of their surroundings.
E-bike usage among young people has surged, prompting specific safety guidance. E-bikes can reach speeds up to 28 mph, increasing the risk of severe injury. Parents and guardians should understand local laws, which may restrict e-bike use for minors or require licensing. Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 on Class 1-2 e-bikes and for all riders on Class 3 e-bikes. Riders must be at least 16 years old for Class 3 e-bikes. It is illegal to ride e-bikes without pedals, as they may be classified as e-motos. Riders should stick to bike lanes or legal paths, avoid heavy traffic, and be predictable when turning or crossing streets.
The OTS and Caltrans emphasize that safety is a shared responsibility. By following these ABCs and the detailed tips, everyone can contribute to a safer school environment. For more information and resources, visit GoSafelyCA.org.
