Back-to-School Traffic Safety: A Legal Reminder from the Law Offices of Clarence Barry-Austin

Clarence Barry-Austin

As summer winds down and New Jersey families prepare for a new school year, August brings more than just backpacks and lunchboxes—it also marks National Traffic Awareness Month. This seasonal shift is a vital time to focus on road safety, especially with increased traffic around schools, crosswalks, and residential areas. At the Law Offices of Clarence Barry-Austin, we’ve seen firsthand how a momentary lapse behind the wheel can lead to life-altering consequences.

Here are key safety considerations every New Jersey driver and parent should remember as the school season begins:

1. Watch for Young Pedestrians and Cyclists

When schools reopen, streets near campuses, playgrounds, and neighborhoods see a surge in young walkers and bikers. Children are often unpredictable and may dart into the street without warning. Drivers must:

  • Slow down in school zones and residential areas

  • Approach crosswalks with caution

  • Always yield to pedestrians

If a child is injured due to a driver’s negligence, families may be entitled to pursue a personal injury claim under New Jersey law.

2. Respect School Bus Stop Laws

In New Jersey, it's illegal to pass a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing and stop sign extended. Whether you're behind the bus or approaching from the opposite direction (unless separated by a physical median), you must stop.

Failure to follow these laws isn’t just dangerous—it can lead to serious legal consequences and expose drivers to civil liability if a child is harmed.

3. Stay Patient in School Zones and Parking Lots

Morning drop-offs and afternoon pickups are hectic. Speeding, double parking, or ignoring signage can lead to accidents—many involving children. Our firm has represented families whose lives were upended by these types of preventable incidents.

Always:

  • Drive slowly

  • Follow school traffic patterns

  • Avoid distractions like cell phones

4. Share the Road with Student Drivers

New teen drivers are returning to high school parking lots, often for the first time. Their lack of experience can lead to mistakes behind the wheel. Be patient and leave extra space when following young drivers. If you're a parent, reinforce defensive driving habits and the dangers of distracted driving.

5. Teach Your Kids to Be Traffic-Smart

Parents are the first line of defense in promoting safety. Before the school year starts, review the basics with your children:

  • Use designated crosswalks

  • Avoid looking at phones while walking or biking

  • Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle

These small reminders can prevent major injuries—and legal battles.

Legal Support When Accidents Happen

Despite everyone’s best efforts, accidents still happen. If your child has been injured in a school-zone accident, bike collision, or pedestrian incident, the Law Offices of Clarence Barry-Austin is here to help. Our team is experienced in personal injury litigation and committed to holding negligent drivers accountable.

Final Thoughts

Traffic safety during back-to-school season is a community responsibility. Let’s all do our part to create safer streets for children, parents, and educators alike. By staying alert and informed, we can prevent tragedies—and if tragedy strikes, we’ll be here to protect your rights.

Need legal advice after a school-zone accident? Contact us today for a free consultation.

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