Safety Tips For Drivers
from Waverly Community Schools publications
Library & Technology Services and the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA)
In 1999, traffic accidents claimed the lives of over 500 pedestrians ages 5 through 18 and injured another 29,000.
Motorists must realize that children are not small adults and do not have the skills to handle themselves in traffic: When driving in school zones, near playgrounds, or in neighborhoods where children play, motorists should always expect a child to dart out into the roadway. (The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, US Deptartment of Transportation.)
Children under age 12 have underdeveloped peripheral vision - approximately 1/3 narrower than adult vision, so a child won't see a motorist approaching from the right or left as soon as an adult will. They also have difficulty judging speed and distance of oncoming traffic.
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Observe speed limits at all times - especially around schools and where children play.
Expect a child to dart out into the roadway when driving in school zones, near playgrounds, or in neighborhoods where children play.
Watch for pedestrians at all times - including when turning left at a green light or making a right turn on red. Remember that pedestrians have the right of way in these situations.
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Never hold a child on your lap — you could crush them in a collision.
Never try to belt yourself and someone else with the same safety belt.
Never tuck the safety belt of a car behind your shoulder.
Never put infants or children in the front seat of the car if your car has a passenger side air bag.
Never go anywhere in an automobile without making sure everyone in the car is buckled in safely — even it it's just down the street.
Never drive when you feel sleepy. Pull over and get some coffee or stop and take a rest.
Never ride in the cargo part of any car or truck. You could get thrown out even if you're under the canopy.
Never drink and drive
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The Safety First initiative is above and beyond regular school budgeting. Businesses and individuals can help defer costs by becoming Community Partners.
For more information, contact Eldon McGraw, 517-319-3013,
or email emcgraw@waverlyk12.net
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