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Sadly, school zone accidents in South Florida and throughout the United States occur far more often than they should. Some reasons why motor vehicle accidents affect children walking or biking to school include:
Drivers are not paying attention to the road. Motorists are often eating, drinking, grooming, and texting while driving. When a child runs into the street or attempts to cross the crosswalk, drivers may be too distracted to notice the child.
Children are smaller and less visible to drivers. Because children are smaller in size, drivers may not be consciously looking out for children while they are driving.
Children become easily distracted. When children are around other kids, they sometimes forget about traffic dangers. When a ball rolls into the street, children often run after it without thinking about the potential for a Fort Lauderdale auto accident.
Children have a harder time judging traffic scenarios. Children lack the ability that adults have in judging traffic hazards. In addition, children have one-third narrower peripheral vision than adults have, which can affect their judgment, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA).
Because children are more vulnerable, and since automobile crashes are the leading cause of death for children age three and older (according to AAA), drivers need to help protect children on the road:
Slow down in school zones and on residential streets.
Keep the car's headlights on during the day and night in these areas so that children can easily see your vehicle.
Be extra careful when driving in inclement weather.
Minimize distractions at the wheel so that you can pay attention to the road and avoid a Fort Lauderdale car accident.
Stop for school buses that are picking up or dropping off students.
Constantly look for clues that children may be close, such as toys, bicycles, etc.
Although not every single accident can be prevented, many crashes can be avoided with more care and attention at the wheel.
If your child was injured in a South Florida car and pedestrian accident, you and your family may have rights. Find out more about your rights by talking to an experienced Fort Lauderdale accident attorney with Chalik & Chalik. Give us a call at (888) 539-5297 to schedule your free legal consultation today.
