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The start of the school year means more kids on the sidewalks and more drivers on the road. Whether you’re a parent or guardian transporting kids to school or have a teen who is driving for the first time, being safe behind the wheel is a top priority. In addition to having proper auto insurance coverage, here are other helpful tips for back-to-school driving.

How Can You Stay Safe When Driving to School?

1. Observe Bus Rules

When a bus’s red or yellow lights are flashing, and its barrier arm is extended, all drivers are required to stop until both warning devices have deactivated. Give yourself ample distance to allow children to safely cross the street and exit and enter buses. It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus that is dropping off or picking up kids.

2. Establish Guidelines for Teen Drivers

Driving to school for the first time is an exciting milestone for many teenagers. Before the first day of class, establish rules to keep them safe and distraction-free. Remind them that texting or talking on the phone is a dangerous distraction and is illegal in Tennessee.

Determine whether or not they are allowed to have passengers, how many, and if they need to ask parental permission beforehand. If there are other passengers, everyone must wear their seat belts. To avoid collisions, injuries, and possible increases in auto insurance coverage, urge teen drivers to always obey speed limits. 

3. Follow School Zone Limits

auto insuranceObserving the posted school zone mileage limits will reduce the chance of an accident. Traffic is especially congested in the mornings and after school. Following school zone speed limits will allow you to respond quickly if a child runs out into the street.

Pay attention to flashing lights and other signals indicating school zone hours are in effect. Even if they aren’t, commit to driving slowly in areas where children are present. Speeding in school zones can cause an increase in your auto insurance.

4. Yield to Pedestrians

Many kids walk to and from school, and drivers should always yield to pedestrians. Never pass a vehicle that has stopped to pick up or drop off children. Follow the instructions of school crossing guards. Don’t proceed until all kids have made it across the street, and the crossing guard has put down their stop sign.

 

Wilmoth Insurance Agency Inc. in Cookeville, TN, is your trusted firm for providing reliable vehicle and passenger protection. These agents will compare nationwide auto insurance rates to ensure you’re getting affordable and complete coverage. This insurance agency serves Cookeville, Livingston, Sparta, Monterey, Crossville, Fairfield Glade, Baxter, and the Upper Cumberland region. Call (931) 526-6181 for a free, no-obligation insurance quote or request one online.

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