Crosswalk Safety Tips Every Parent Should Teach Their Kids

As a parent, teaching your kids about crosswalk safety is one of the most valuable lessons you can share. Kids often need to cross the street safely when getting to and from school. Teaching them how to navigate crosswalks is essential to prevent accidents and encourage safer walking habits. Below, we discuss some vital tips every parent should teach their children when navigating crosswalks.

Stop at the Curb

Children often misjudge how quickly vehicles can approach, resulting in accidents. Teach your child to always stop at the curb and assess their surroundings before stepping onto the street. Let them know that darting into the street without stopping is dangerous. You can use examples or visuals to help them understand the importance of crossing only after their surroundings are clear.

Look and Listen Before Stepping Onto the Crosswalk

Show your child how to look left, right, and left again before crossing. They should also check for turning vehicles if crossing intersections with multiple lanes. In today’s world, with the rise of electric cars that are often very quiet, it’s essential to teach your child to listen for approaching vehicles, especially those coming from around corners or other hidden areas. Even if the signal says it’s safe to cross, remind them that drivers sometimes run red lights, so they should always look for oncoming traffic before stepping into the crosswalk.

Walk, Don’t Run

When crossing the street, your child should always walk and never run. Running across the street poses a danger of tripping or being unable to stop in case a car suddenly appears. By walking steadily, your child will be able to stay aware of their surroundings and react more safely. Ensure you emphasize the importance of walking, even if your child is in a hurry.

Cross Only at Designated Areas

Another essential tip is to teach your child to always use the marked crosswalks or intersections to cross the street. Darting out from between parked cars or crossing at random spots is dangerous. If your child is unsure, it’s always best to ask an adult for help.

Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

Distractions like smartphones, headphones, or chatting with friends can lead to accidents. Teach your child to focus on the road and remove headphones near traffic and before crossing the street.

Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing

Visibility is crucial, especially in low-light conditions. Encourage your child to wear bright colors during the day and reflective clothing or accessories at night or in poor weather. For instance, items like reflective wristbands, backpacks, or shoes can make them more noticeable to drivers.

How To Talk to Your Child About Crossing Streets

When talking to your child about crosswalk safety, balance honesty with encouragement. Explain the risks but emphasize the steps they can take to stay safe. Instead of scolding your child when they make mistakes, gently show them what they should have done.

The best approach to teaching your kids is to engage in practical demonstrations. For instance, you can take your child to a nearby crosswalk and demonstrate how to stop safely at the curb, looking both ways and waiting for the signal in case there is one. Another option is creating a pretend crosswalk at home to create an interactive learning session.

Contact a Columbus Pedestrian Attorney

If your child or loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact our the law office of Brian G. Miller CO., L.L.C. today to discuss your case.

Source:

codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-3335-21-10