Road traffic accidents are the leading cause of death among people aged 5-29 around the world. However, it’s reported that a high proportion of these accidents could be prevented.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at how to drive safely in a neighbourhood where there are lots of children. Here, we’ll highlight what motorists should pay attention to considering the unpredictable behaviour of vulnerable children, and the meanings of relevant hazard-warning signs.
Considering the Behaviour of Child Pedestrians
Despite road safety warnings and concerns, many children place themselves at increased risk of accidents when out and about. Whether rushing home at the end of the school day or playing ball games with friends, they can have little concern for the rules of the road. The risks are particularly high in busy pedestrian areas, where motorists have to account for a wide range of hazards.
Of course, there’s no denying the importance of safe driving and vigilance at all times. However, particular care must be taken before and after school, at weekends, and during school holidays. It’s important to drive cautiously around corners and when reversing from your driveway as children may suddenly dart into your path. You should also keep an eye and ear out for ice cream vans due to the likely presence of excited kids.
Even when children are in the company of responsible adults, they can be liable to run after their friends and dash into the road. The small stature and unpredictable behaviour of such children mean that they are at relatively high risk. However, motorists can limit the potential for accidents by keeping to the speed limits and following the highway code.
Driving Precautions for the Welfare of Children and Teenagers
- Staying alert to the possibility of children running out from behind parked vehicles
- Taking extra care when approaching pedestrian crossings, given that children may not be aware of the rules
- Steering clear of distractions, such as the temptation to eat or tune the radio while driving
- Ensuring maximum visibility by keeping your headlights on and giving indications
- Making driving adjustments depending on the weather
- Being alert to the potentially erratic behaviour of bicycle and scooter riders
- Regularly checking mirrors, rearview cameras and sensors.
Whether you’re on the way to work or driving the kids to school, it’s essential that you keep to the speed limit so as to minimise the risk of accidents. Otherwise, you will experience greater difficulty in the handling of your vehicle, with reduced reaction times and increased braking distances. This will mean that there’s a greater risk of fatal road collisions. At the very least, there’ll be a chance of being caught by the speed cameras and facing significant fines for your irresponsible driving.
You should be aware that speed limits may be reduced along school walking routes and beside playgrounds. It’s quite common to see signs indicating the need to maintain speeds at or below 5 and 10 miles per hour for traffic and pedestrian safety. Even when such limits are not in operation, it’s best to keep your speed down in built-up areas.
Extra vigilance should also be taken when you see these signs:
- Pedestrian crossing sign - indicating the need to slow down and be ready to stop given the high likelihood of pedestrian activity
- School crossing sign - positioned next to a school crossing, such a sign will indicate the potential for having to stop when a lollipop is shown
- Pedestrians in road ahead sign - highlighting the need for caution as pedestrians may have no other option but to step into the road (wording may also indicate the lack of footway)
- Children on board sign - commonly displayed on school buses, these signs should be taken as a warning that children may dash into the road.
Drive Safely with Label Source
In following the recommended safe driving precautions and adhering to road signs, you can contribute to the campaign for the prevention of child road injuries and deaths.
Join us in making the roads a safer place for all by correctly marking your roads with the right traffic signs.
