As the school year begins, school zones become some of the busiest places on the road. Parents are dropping off children, school buses are loading students, and pedestrians, bicyclists, and young drivers are all sharing the same space.
Understanding the unique rules of school zones and knowing what hazards to watch for can help prevent serious accidents and keep everyone safe.
Accidents Near School Zones
School zones are designed to protect children, but accidents still happen every year due to heavy traffic, distracted driving, and unpredictable pedestrian activity.
Common School Zone Accidents
Some of the most common accidents include:
- Pedestrian accidents involving students or crossing guards.
- Rear-end collisions in pickup and drop-off lines.
- Parking lot accidents.
- Bicycle and scooter crashes.
- School bus-related accidents.
School Zone Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- More than 1,000 people were killed in school transportation-related traffic crashes between 2013 and 2022, averaging about 108 fatalities each year.
- Pedestrians account for more fatalities than school bus occupants. During that same period, 169 pedestrians were killed, compared to 111 occupants of school transportation vehicles.
- Children ages 5 to 10 are among the most vulnerable. More than half (55%) of all school-age pedestrians killed in school transportation-related crashes were between 5 and 10 years old.
- The most dangerous time of day is between 3:00 p.m. and 3:59 p.m., when the highest number of school-age pedestrian fatalities occurs as students leave school.
These statistics highlight why drivers should slow down, eliminate distractions, and remain especially alert whenever they approach a school zone or school bus.
Common Injuries
School zone accidents can lead to serious injuries, including:
- Broken bones.
- Head and brain injuries.
- Neck and back injuries.
- Internal injuries.
- Cuts and lacerations.
Road Rules Specific to School Zones
To avoid preventable accidents, drivers should be especially cautious when entering a school zone.
Follow the Posted School Zone Speed Limit
Reduced speed limits help give drivers more time to react when children are present. Always obey posted signs and slow down near schools.
Stop for School Buses
Drivers must stop when a school bus is loading or unloading students and its stop signals are activated, unless an exception under state law applies.
Obey Crossing Guards
Crossing guards have the authority to direct traffic near school crosswalks. Always follow their instructions and wait until pedestrians have safely crossed.
Follow Curb and Parking Rules
Only use designated loading and unloading areas. Avoid stopping in fire lanes, bus zones, or no parking areas where visibility may be reduced.
Never Pass in an Active School Zone
Do not pass another vehicle in an active school zone unless directed by law enforcement. A stopped vehicle may be allowing a child to cross.
Precautions to Take When Driving Through a School Zone
School zones require extra attention, even if you’re following the law.
Remember to:
- Watch for students, parents, teachers, and other pedestrians who may cross unexpectedly.
- Pay close attention to school zone signs and flashing signals.
- Watch for bicycles, scooters, skateboards, and motorcycles.
- Expect young children to run into the street, especially near elementary schools.
- Be alert for school buses making frequent stops.
- Give young student drivers extra space and be patient in parking lots and pickup lines.
Contact Our Experienced School Zone Accident Attorneys
A school zone accident can leave victims and their families dealing with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about what comes next.
At TORKLAW, our experienced personal injury attorneys help individuals and families injured in school zone, pedestrian, bicycle, and parking lot accidents. We investigate every case, handle the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation our clients deserve.
When you choose TORKLAW, you can expect:
- Free, no-obligation consultation
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- No fees unless we win your case
- Compassionate legal support every step of the way
If you or your child has been injured in a school zone accident, contact TORKLAW today for a free consultation. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and help you understand your legal options.
