With the new school year having started, kids of all ages are again walking and biking to school en masse. During the back-to-school season, it’s especially important for drivers to share the road responsibly. Kona Community Hospital in Kealakekua, HI, would like to take this opportunity to share some accident-prevention wisdom and remind  Hawaii Island drivers to keep a close eye out for young pedestrians this fall.

5 Ways To Keep Kids Safer This Fall From Kona Community Hospital

Slow Down

Speed limits drop to 25 MPH in school zones for a very good reason. The difference between 25 and 35 miles per hour might not feel like much from the driver’s seat, but to a pedestrian, it can mean the difference between life and death.

Yield To School Buses

Never, ever pass a school bus when its lights are flashing. When you’re sharing the road with a school bus, use extra caution and leave yourself extra room to brake for any kids crossing the street.

Watch Out For Bikes

Check your blind spots extra-thoroughly for kids on bikes whenever you’re changing lanes near a school. Also, check your side view mirror for approaching bikes before you open your car door.

Stay Alert When Dropping Off Your Kids

According to the National Safe Routes To School program, most car accidents involving kids happen right in the school drop-off and pickup area itself. It goes without saying that you should always avoid distracted driving, but this holds especially true during the morning drop-off rush. Even if you’re running late and feeling frantic, resist the urge to multitask behind the wheel.

Be Mindful Of Young Drivers

Be aware that many teens might be driving themselves to school for the first time this fall. Be patient with teen drivers, brush up on your defensive driving, and remind your own teenage kids to never text and drive.

These back-to-school safety tips are sponsored by the trauma center at Kona Community Hospital. Kona Community Hospital is proud to provide expert health care and services to the Kealakekua and West Hawaii community for over 100 years. Visit the Kona Community Hospital website for more information on their full range of hospital services.