SCHOOL'S OUT!

NYC Public Schools closed for the summer at noon today - Drive Carefully

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children of all ages. One-fourth of all elementary school children who die in these crashes are pedestrians.  Overall, one pedestrian is killed every two hours in the U.S.

Please use extra caution on roadways by neighborhoods, playgrounds, parks and other places where children are out playing.  Maintaining a 20-30 second visual lead while driving allows motorists time to identify unexpected problems and execute defensive driving actions that may prevent a misfortune.

If in doubt about a possible approaching situation – slow down. Be alert to children darting from between parked cars.  Children have a hard time judging speed and distance, so they are at greater risk.

To help protect our children, here are some tips for motorists and parents...

MOTORISTS:

Wear sunglasses and keep your windshield clear to reduce sun glare.

Drive with your headlights on – even during the day – so children and other drivers can see you.

Watch for children, not only in playground areas, but at unexpected places and times.

Don’t let distractions, such as noisy children or car phones, interfere with your driving concentration.  Pull off the road to a safe location to make phone calls or text.

Slower speeds and a cooler temperament are a must.

Make eye contact with children who are about to cross the street.  Be aware of their next step and make sure that they are aware of yours.

Be especially careful when passing ice cream trucks.  Excited children often run into the street.

Don’t drive when drowsy.  Sun, surf and summer fun will tire you out more than you realize.

Of course, keep yourself and your passengers safe:  Buckle up or use an age-appropriate child care seat or booster seat.

PARENTS, TEACH YOUR YOUNGSTERS TO:

Never run or bicycle into the street without looking.

Walk facing traffic and look left-right-left when crossing.

Bicycle with the flow of traffic, and obey all traffic controls and vehicular rules of the road.

Play away from traffic – use playgrounds and parks, not streets.

Use reflectors on clothing and bicycles when out in twilight or darkness.

Wear helmets when biking, skating or on a scooter.

Remember, when school’s out, children are at play, please drive carefully.