As kids start heading back to school, motorists everywhere should be more vigilant about observing their surroundings. Children are both hard to see and unpredictable, and all it takes is five seconds of distracted driving to cause a devastating collision. If you or your child has been hurt by a distracted driver, a personal injury lawyer from Kidwell & Gallagher LTD in Elko, NV, will help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Back-to-School Safety: 3 Tips for Motorists From a Personal Injury Lawyer

1. Stop for School Buses

In the state of Nevada, motorists must stop when they are following or approaching a school bus that is flashing its red lights. The only time you do not have to stop is if you are traveling in the opposite direction of the school bus on the other side of a divided highway. Otherwise, you must remain stopped until the stop sign is no longer displayed and the lights stop flashing. This is to ensure the safety of the children getting on and off the bus.

2. Slow Down at Crosswalks

Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks in Nevada. Children who are waiting to cross can be hard to spot because of their small stature, though, so always slow down as you approach crosswalks near schools or residential areas. And remember: if you see a ball roll out onto the street, there is a good chance a child will run after it.

3. Eliminate Distractions

As a motorist, you owe a certain duty of care to the other drivers and pedestrians around you. This duty includes avoiding distractions like texting while driving or eating behind the wheel. Your morning may be rushed, but completing elements of your routine on the way to work is never a good idea, especially when school is in session and the roads are more congested.

If you or someone you love was seriously injured as the result of someone else’s reckless driving, turn to a personal injury lawyer from Kidwell & Gallagher LTD in Elko, NV, for quality legal representation. An attorney from their firm will assess your case and help you determine the best way to proceed. You can learn more about the comprehensive legal counsel they provide accident victims by visiting their website. To schedule an initial consultation with a compassionate personal injury lawyer, call (775) 738-9877.