As school starts this morning for many children in Central Pennsylvania, it is important for parents to teach their children how to ride the bus safely. Every year, there are school bus accidents involving injury and fatalities that can be avoided. You should consider talking to your kids to tell them how to act safely at the bus stop and how to behave while on the bus. Here are some suggestions. Do you have any others?
- Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
- When the bus approaches, stand at least three steps away from the curb, and line up away from the street.
- Wait until the bus stops completely, the door opens, and the driver says that it is okay before stepping onto the bus.
- If you have to cross the street in front of the bus, walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to a point at least five steps ahead of the bus before you cross. Be sure that the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver.
- Use the handrails on the bus to avoid falls.
- When exiting the bus, be careful that clothing with drawstrings and book bags with straps do not get caught in the handrails or doors.
- Never walk behind the bus.
- Walk at least three steps away from the side of the bus.
Listen to the school bus driver in case there are any special instructions for the bus ride.
- Sit quietly in your seat.
- Speak quietly to the other children near you.
- Do not jump up and down, fight or tease other students or make a lot of noise. These activities can distract the bus driver and prevent him or her from giving proper attention to driving.
If you or a loved one are seriously injured in a Pennsylvania bus accident, contact an experienced Harrisburg bus accident lawyer at Schmidt Kramer to discuss your case, especially if distracted driving was the cause.
We can answer any questions or concerns you have about a Central Pennsylvania bus accident in Carlisle, Harrisburg, Camp Hill, Hershey, Shippensburg and all of Central Pennsylvania.
The toll-free number is 888-476-0807 or 717-888-8888 and the case evaluation is free. Alternatively, you may wish to download a free copy of our book Who Pays the Bills When You Are Injured in an Automobile Accident? for additional information.