As another school year begins in West Islip and surrounding Long Island communities, parents face a sobering reality. Data reveals a disturbing trend: traffic incidents involving school-age children have spiked by a worrying margin in recent years. As you prepare for the new academic year, it’s crucial to understand the hidden dangers your children face on their daily journeys to and from school.
Bus stops may not be as safe as you think
School buses are generally safe, but the areas around bus stops can be dangerous. Some drivers illegally pass stopped buses, putting children at risk as they get on or off. Crowded bus stops can push kids closer to the street, increasing the chances of an accident. There’s also the possibility of bullying or fights while waiting for the bus, as well as slips and falls in areas that aren’t well-maintained.
Dangers of walking to school
Walking to school seems like a safe, healthy option for many kids. However, this simple act can expose them to many hazards, such as:
- Distracted drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Poorly maintained sidewalks, causing trips and falls
- Inadequate street lighting during early morning or late afternoon hours
- Criminals targeting vulnerable children walking alone
- Weather-related risks like wet or icy sidewalks, heat exhaustion, or frostbite
These dangers are compounded by the fact that many drivers are in a rush during school hours, potentially overlooking small pedestrians in their haste.
Biking Hazards
While biking to school can give children a sense of freedom, it also involves significant risks. Some areas of Long Island have no dedicated bike lanes, forcing kids to ride in traffic. This can be especially dangerous when drivers don’t check for cyclists before opening car doors or when visibility is low during early morning or late evening hours. Even with helmets and other safety gear, children are vulnerable to serious injuries from falls or collisions. Sharing paths with pedestrians can also lead to accidents.
Trips to school should be safe, but there can be hidden dangers. As such, knowing your legal rights and options can be invaluable if your child is involved in an accident. With the help of compassionate legal guidance, you can potentially pursue a personal injury claim for injuries or trauma that occur during what should be a safe journey to school.