With Schools Opening Up Again, Keeping Your Child Safe From Pedestrian Accidents
According to the CDC, one in five children involved in traffic accidents were pedestrians. Now with schools opening again in Florida too, it’s making children all the more vulnerable. If you’re wondering about how to keep your child safe from pedestrian accidents, you’re in the right place!
Why Children are Vulnerable to Pedestrian Accidents
Sometimes children don’t pay attention to their surroundings, and they may walk in areas they shouldn’t be in. Other times drivers find it hard to spot them. They may even forget to check the road before crossing it.
Children are also easily surprised, as well, and they might not be able to react in time to sudden movements. This makes them particularly prone to freezing up in the face of danger.
How to Keep Your Child Safe from Pedestrian Accidents
When it comes to keeping your child safe, the first thing is to teach them how to cross the road and be careful. Always make sure they look at both sides repeatedly before crossing. Even when crossing, your child should be alert all the time.
Coupled with checking the road, your child should be instructed to walk only in designated areas. This includes sidewalks and crosswalks, which will help them stand out more. If your child walks only in the designated areas, then they won’t be considered at fault.
Electronics shouldn’t be in the hands of children when they’re crossing the road. Instead, ask your child to put earphones and other devices away. By doing this, they can be aware of their surroundings and avoid vehicles if necessary.
Some drivers don’t pay enough attention while turning or backing up. Teach your child to beware of vehicles moving this way.
During darker times of the day, teach your child to be especially alert. You can also give them bright clothing and reflective gear to make them visible. Drivers can spot your child earlier and prevent accidents from happening.
You should also be a good example of safety for your child. Follow all the rules when crossing roads, and your child might be influenced to do the same.
What to Do When Your Child is Involved in An Accident
First, make sure your child is fine before checking on others. Next, call the police and gather all the evidence you can. If your child is injured, you should call an ambulance.
The evidence you need to gather includes names, license plates, addresses, and insurance. While police officers will gather this, as a parent, you should write it all down as well. You increase your credibility this way.
After the accident, contact a personal injury attorney for legal help. Focus on being there for your child and let us handle the legal aspects. You don’t have to be stressed over laws and regulations.
Has Your Child Been Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
If your child has been involved in a traffic accident as a pedestrian in Florida, it’s understandable to feel uncertain as to how you should proceed. This can be a very scary and uncertain time for you, but you can always contact us at Lyons & Snyder. Focus on your child while they recover and allow us to handle your case for you. For more information or to schedule a free, no-risk case evaluation with our team of Plantation personal injury attorneys, please do not hesitate to contact us today!
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