As the new school year begins, traffic around school campuses increases, bringing a mix of drop-offs, pickups, and children walking or biking. To address this, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are urging everyone to remember their 'ABCs' on every trip: stay Alert for Bicyclists and watch for and yield to Children crossing the street. This initiative aims to reduce risks and ensure safe journeys for students.
For drivers, the responsibility is significant. Children outside vehicles lack the protections of those inside, so drivers must be vigilant. Key tips include: follow speed limits, exercise extra caution at crosswalks and intersections, avoid distractions, never drive impaired, and adjust driving to conditions like rain or fog. When passing bicyclists, drivers must wait for a safe opportunity and provide at least three feet of space.
Pedestrians also play a crucial role in their safety. They should use sidewalks when available; if not, walk facing traffic. Crossing should occur only at marked crosswalks, and before crossing, they should look both ways and make eye contact with drivers to ensure visibility. Wearing bright or reflective clothing and using lights after dark, as well as staying alert without headphones or phone use, are essential.
Bicyclists are encouraged to protect themselves by staying alert and visible. Planning routes with bike lanes or paths, equipping bicycles with lights and reflectors, wearing properly fitted helmets and bright clothing, and learning hand signals are recommended. They should also yield to pedestrians and stay aware of drivers.
With the increasing use of e-bikes among young people, OTS and Caltrans provide specific safety tips. E-bikes can reach speeds up to 28 mph unassisted, posing greater risks. Rules vary by class: helmets are required for riders under 18 on Class 1-2 e-bikes and for all riders on Class 3, and riders must be at least 16 for Class 3. Parents should ensure e-bikes have pedals, avoid roads with traffic when possible, and ride predictably. Local laws may have additional restrictions, so contacting local law enforcement is advised.
These guidelines are part of a broader effort to foster a safe environment as school activities resume. For more information, visit GoSafelyCA.org.
