Summer is officially over, kids are back in school, and pumpkin spice is turning up everywhere. Each season brings its own driving hazards, and Fall is no exception. Read on for some safe driving tips to help keep you and your family safe this season.
Back to School Safety
Now that school is back in session, drivers should be on the lookout for school buses in neighborhoods and on city streets. Remember to always stop for a school bus when its flashing lights are on and/or when the “STOP” sign is deployed. New York Law requires all traffic to stop, even on the opposite side of a divided highway.
Drivers should also be aware that school buses may be carrying children after school, in the evenings, and on weekends, to sports events and other extracurricular activities. School bus laws apply at all times, not just during regular school hours.
Drivers should also be aware that newly licensed teenagers may be driving to and from school. New drivers tend to be nervous and often overreact to perceived hazards. When driving through neighborhoods or near high schools, be aware that some inexperienced drivers may be on the roads, and exercise caution.
Halloween Safety
Halloween has become extended from one night, to a whole season of parties, haunted houses, and other activities. As in any situation where alcohol is being served, partygoers who do not have a designated driver in their group should take advantage of ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft. A DUI conviction will be enormously expensive, and in many cases, may cost an unlucky person their job.
On Halloween itself, drivers should be extra cautious, especially in residential neighborhoods where children are likely to be trick-or-treating. Be aware that children may be wearing costumes that restrict their vision, hearing, and/or movement. There are circumstances in which obeying the posted speed limit does not satisfy a driver’s duty of care – Halloween may be one of those circumstances. During trick-or-treat hours, it may be necessary to travel well below the posted speed limit.
Even after trick-or-treating hours, extra caution is important on Halloween. Drivers should be aware of the possible presence of pranksters who may throw things at cars, run into streets, or attempt to “scare” passers-by.
Time Changes
Fall also means fewer daylight hours, especially when Daylight Savings Time ends. Drivers who have problems driving at night and inexperienced drivers should be aware of this and adjust their travel times accordingly.
New York Auto Accident Attorneys
The attorneys and staff at O’Brien & Ford wish your family a safe and happy back-to-school and Halloween season. If you do find yourself in an accident, as a driver, pedestrian, or passenger, call us at 716-907-7777 for a free consultation with an auto accident expert. Visit our website at https://obrienfoldprd.wpenginepowered.com/ for more information.