AAA School Drop-Off & Pick-Up Safety Tips for Parents

If you're like many parents who drive their kids to school, you may be contributing to traffic hazards in the drop-off zone.

Parents often double park or stop in crosswalks as they wait for their children, blocking visibility for children and other motorists.

Here are some suggestions:

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•	Always pull up to the curb, on the same side of the street as the school
•	Never stop in moving traffic to let kids out of the car
•	Kids should exit the car on the curb side, never in the street
•	Comply with the speed limit in school zones. Parents too often drive 10 mph faster than the posted speed limit, putting children in danger.

Diverting the bus driver's attention could cause a crash

•	Never block a school bus, even if your child misses their ride
•	Don't drive beside the bus, honking the horn and waving frantically for the driver to stop so you can deliver a forgotten lunch or homework

What can you do?
Walk or take public transit if possible. Walking is good for kids. It can increase their self-reliance and sense of responsibility.

During the first week of school, it's a good idea for you to walk your child to school or the bus stop. Use these walks to:

•	Point out possible traffic hazards
•	Teach and practice safe walking habits
•	Designate the safest walking route
•	Be at school when it lets out, and wait on the school side of the street

With your help, your children can become confident and capable of handling various traffic situations in and around school.

Some suggestions
If you must drive your kids to or from school, these suggestions may help minimize traffic hazards for all kids:

•	Carpool to reduce the number of cars at the school or bus stop
•	Request that the school set up a special pick-up and drop-off area
•	If there is no such area, arrange a specific place to pick up your children – on the same side of the street as the school or away from congestion
•	Ask school officials to dismiss children who ride in cars a little later than those who walk, bike or ride school buses

Condensed from “Getting Children to School Safely.” Download the complete brochure by clicking here.

Prevent school-zone dangers: check your driving habits

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