Walk to School Safety: Protecting Maine's Young Pedestrians
October is “International Walk to School Month.” This global initiative encourages students, parents, and communities to practice walking to school to promote healthy activity and reduce the risks associated with motor vehicle travel. For little ones, “walking to school” is an exciting adventure—but for parents, guardians, and motorists, the increased presence of children on roadways requires heightened awareness of the risks pedestrians face when sharing the road with motor vehicles.
Understanding Child Pedestrian Safety Risks
In 2023, Safe Kids Worldwide reported decreased rates of both fatal and non-fatal injury to child pedestrians over the last decade.[1] Despite these positive safety trends, children sharing our roadways remain at increased risk for serious personal injury when unsupervised, distracted by cellphones or headphones, or simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time. It’s important that parents and guardians take steps to safeguard their children’s safety when walking to school to reduce the risks of harm. Fortunately, there are several simple tools that can help keep your student safe while walking to school.
5 Essential Walking to School Safety Tips
- Devices off, pay attention—it only takes a second for a distracted pedestrian to step into harm’s way or miss warning signs. Never walk on roadways while using your phone. Limit headphones use and stay aware of surroundings.
- Sidewalks are safest—when possible, pedestrians should always use designated sidewalks.
- Use crosswalks—whenever crossing a roadway, use marked crosswalks and pedestrian crossings. Even if this means walking a bit farther, a minute spared for safety can save a lifetime of regret.
- Wear bright clothing—help motorists see you from a distance. When light is low, wear reflective material or carry an illuminated device to signal your presence.
- Walk together—there’s safety in numbers. When possible, encourage your child to walk to school with others, or join a “walking bus.” Walking buses are regular groups of students who travel to school by foot on a daily schedule.
What to Do After a Child Pedestrian Accident in Maine
Although each of us owes a duty of care to children on our roadways, no accident is entirely preventable. When children are injured in pedestrian crashes, the scope of damages is almost always complex. Often, it is difficult to discern whether future, long-term effects will impact an injured child. This makes it difficult for families to make a full and fair recovery on the child’s behalf.
Berman & Simmons networks with medical, educational, and long-term care experts to build the most complete and compelling case on behalf of minor plaintiffs. Our track record recovering some of Maine’s largest personal injury verdicts speaks to our commitment to ensuring that your family gets what it deserves when you need it most.
Experienced Child Injury Lawyers Serving Maine Families
If your child has been injured in a pedestrian strike accident, do not leave their legal care to chance. Berman & Simmons is here to guide you along the path to a successful recovery.
Serving communities throughout Maine including Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and Biddeford.