GEM Motoring Assist, is urging parents and children to prioritize their safety while traveling to and from school.
As a new school year commences, GEM emphasizes the importance of everyone, from young children to seniors, being aware of the risks associated with using the roads. More than 30 children are either killed or seriously injured every week on the UK’s road network.
James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, explains, “It is crucial for every child to learn how to safely navigate the roads, whether they are walking, cycling, or eventually driving. Despite this, road collisions continue to be a leading cause of accidental death for children, resulting in life-changing injuries. It’s imperative for all of us to take responsibility for our own safety, as well as the safety of children who share the roads with us. We need to work towards reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries.”
“As the new school year begins, we encourage parents, guardians, teachers, carers, and older siblings to play their part in helping children respect the roads, recognize the risks they face, and understand effective ways to minimize those risks.”
GEM has compiled a selection of tips for parents and their children as the new school year begins.
- Try not to use the car for the school run. For some parents, it’s essential, but for many others, there are healthier alternatives. Find out about any local safe walking initiatives that may operate at your child’s school. Team up with neighbours and walk together.
- It’s cool to be bright: equip your kids with reflective belts, bags, keyrings, or slapbands, or choose coats with fluorescent piping.
- If you must drive to school, allow plenty of time to park safely and legally. Don’t pull up on zig-zag lines outside a school, and respect residents by not blocking driveways and access points.
- Respect speed limits. Many areas around schools are subject to 20mph speed limits (either permanent or timed), and you will face a £100 fine and three points on your license if you are caught speeding.
- Do your bit to help the crossing patrol. Be patient and always be prepared to stop. Remember, not stopping at a patrol’s signal is an offense.
- If you drive older children who don’t need escorting into the school premises, make sure they get out of the car in a safe location and never let them step out into the road instead of the pavement.”
