The start of the school year is just around the corner. This means more drivers on the roads at the same time to get kids to and from school.
At Sanchez and Piñon, we’re big supporters of Rio Rancho Public Schools. We’ve sponsored the Teacher Appreciation Award since 2015. So we have some driving tips for everyone as school gets into full swing.
Driving Safe in School Zones
No one likes driving in a school zone. And we actually recommend that if you don’t have to, don’t. Limiting these zones to those picking up or dropping off kids makes for fewer cars and therefore a safer area. But if you have to drive in a school zone, keep these things in mind:
- Follow the speed limit. Whatever you’re running late to, nothing is worth potentially hitting a child.
- Follow pick-up and drop-off rules. Even if it’s tempting to save time by disregarding these rules, they’re created to keep your and others’ children safe.
- Don’t get distracted. Talking on the phone, texting, and eating are all no-nos when there are children running around.
Make sure your teen drivers follow these rules as well. Talk to your children about safety around school buses, and stress that sidewalks are not a place to play.
Driving Safe in Neighborhoods
Speeding through a neighborhood might save you some time, but it can have a high cost. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding causes over one-third of traffic fatalities in New Mexico. And the majority of those speeding fatalities are on non-interstate roads.
Driving through a neighborhood may let you encounter fewer other drivers, but that doesn’t make it safe. Children, pedestrians, bicyclists, and pets all frequent neighborhoods more than major roadways. And they have less protection from your vehicle than another driver would.
Speeding makes it harder for you to drive safely on any road. But make sure you’re paying special attention to speed limits when you’re in a neighborhood.
Let Us Help
We want to work together to keep Rio Rancho public and charter schools safe. If you or a family member have been injured by a driver near a school or neighborhood, contact us. We’re here to get you the just compensation you deserve.
