With the new school year underway, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are reminding drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists to practice the “ABCs” of road safety: staying Alert for Bicyclists and watching for and yielding to Children crossing the street. This initiative comes as traffic patterns shift around school campuses, increasing the risk of accidents involving young students.
The campaign highlights the critical role drivers play in protecting vulnerable road users. Children outside of vehicles lack the protections afforded to drivers and passengers, making it essential for motorists to exercise extra caution. Key tips for drivers include obeying speed limits, being patient, and avoiding distractions such as phone use. Drivers are also urged to never drive impaired and to adjust for adverse weather or lighting conditions. When passing bicyclists, they must allow at least three feet of clearance.
Pedestrians, including students walking to school, are encouraged to use sidewalks and crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, and make eye contact with drivers to ensure they are seen. Wearing bright or reflective clothing and carrying lights during low visibility can significantly improve safety. Additionally, pedestrians should avoid using headphones or phones while crossing busy roads to stay alert to their surroundings.
Bicyclists, including those on e-bikes, are advised to plan routes using bike paths or lanes, equip their bikes with lights and reflectors, wear properly fitted helmets, and learn hand signals to communicate with other road users. E-bike safety is a growing concern, as these vehicles can reach speeds up to 28 mph, increasing the severity of crashes. The OTS and Caltrans stress that e-bike riders under 18 must wear helmets for Class 1-2 models, while all Class 3 riders require helmets. Riders must be at least 16 years old for Class 3 e-bikes. Parents and guardians should also be aware that local laws may impose additional restrictions, and they should contact local law enforcement to understand specific regulations.
The “Go Safely California” campaign, accessible at GoSafelyCA.org, serves as a resource for the public to learn more about road safety. By following these guidelines, communities can work together to ensure that students arrive at school safely and that the back-to-school season remains a positive experience for families.
