The start of a new school term often means busier roads, crowded pavements and more traffic around school entrances. Drivers may also see more children walking, cycling or using scooters during the morning and afternoon rush.
A little extra care can make the school run safer and less stressful for everyone. Here are ten simple back-to-school driving and road safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Allow extra time for your journey
Running late can lead to rushed decisions, such as driving too quickly or parking somewhere unsafe.
Try to leave a few minutes earlier during the first weeks of term. Roads may be busier than they were during the school holidays, especially while families settle into new routines.
Planning your route in advance can also help you avoid roadworks, closures and the busiest streets near the school.
2. Reduce your speed near schools
Always follow the speed limit shown on local signs. However, remember that a speed limit is a maximum, not a target.
You may need to drive more slowly when:
- Children are gathering near the pavement
- Cars are parked on both sides of the road
- Visibility is poor
- A school crossing patrol is present
- The weather is wet, foggy or icy
Children may not judge the speed or distance of approaching vehicles correctly. They can also be harder to see between parked cars, so stay alert and be ready to stop.
3. Keep school entrances clear
Parking close to the school gates may feel convenient, but it can block the view for children, parents and other drivers.
The Highway Code advises drivers not to stop or park near a school entrance. You must also follow any restrictions shown by signs and yellow school entrance markings.
Avoid parking:
- On pedestrian crossing zig-zag lines
- Across driveways or dropped kerbs
- On corners or close to junctions
- On the pavement
- In cycle lanes or at bus stops
If necessary, park a little further away and walk the final part of the journey. This can help reduce congestion directly outside the school.
4. Look carefully for pedestrians
Expect more people to be walking near schools, crossings and residential streets.
When turning into or out of a junction, you should give way to pedestrians who are crossing or waiting to cross the road. Take extra care when reversing, as small children may be difficult to see through mirrors or windows.
Do not wave someone across the road. Another driver may not have seen them. Instead, slow down, stop when required and allow them to make sure it is safe.
5. Give cyclists plenty of room
Some children and parents may cycle to school. Slow down when approaching them and only overtake when there is enough space to do so safely.
The Highway Code advises leaving at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph. More space should be given at higher speeds.
If the road is too narrow or there is oncoming traffic, wait behind the cyclist until it is safe to pass. A few seconds of patience can make a big difference.
6. Check child car seats and seat belts
Children must normally use a suitable child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. After that, they must wear a seat belt.
Before starting the journey, check that:
- The child seat is suitable for the child’s height or weight
- The seat is fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- Seat belts and harnesses are secure
- Bulky coats are not affecting how closely the harness fits
- Bags and other loose objects are stored safely
The driver is responsible for making sure children under 14 are correctly restrained.
7. Put distractions away
School-run traffic can change quickly. A child may step into the road, a car door may open or a vehicle may stop without much warning.
Set your sat nav, music and temperature controls before moving off. It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving, including while stationary in traffic.
Conversations, food and noisy passengers can also affect your concentration. Encourage children to remain calm while the vehicle is moving.
8. Choose a safe place to drop children off
Look for an approved parking space or drop-off area. Avoid stopping in the road simply because it is close to the entrance.
Whenever possible, children should leave the vehicle using the door next to the pavement. Before opening a door, check mirrors and blind spots for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.
Make sure the car has stopped fully before anyone removes their seat belt or opens a door.
9. Make sure your vehicle is ready
Back-to-school season often arrives as the days begin to get shorter and the weather becomes less predictable.
Regularly check your:
- Tyres and tyre pressures
- Lights and indicators
- Brakes
- Windscreen and mirrors
- Wiper blades
- Screen wash
Keeping windows and mirrors clean will improve visibility, particularly during rain or low autumn sunlight.
10. Consider other ways to travel
Driving may not always be necessary. If the route is suitable, walking, cycling or using public transport could help reduce traffic outside the school.
Some families also choose to park away from the busiest area and walk the rest of the journey. This is sometimes called “park and stride”.
If you do need to drive, sharing journeys with another family may reduce the number of cars on the road. Just make sure every child has the correct car seat or restraint.
A safer start to the school year
The school run can be busy, but it does not need to be stressful. Leaving earlier, reducing your speed and choosing a safe place to park can help protect children and other road users.
The start of a new term can also be a useful time to check that your car insurance still suits your needs. If your routine, annual mileage or drivers have changed, review your policy details and update them where necessary.
If you are looking for cover, One Call Insurance can help you compare car insurance options when the time is right.
Sources
The Highway Code: Road users requiring extra care
The Highway Code: Waiting and parking
The Highway Code: Using the road
GOV.UK: Child car seat rules GOV.UK: Check your vehicle is safe to drive
