With the new school year underway, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are reminding all road users to prioritize safety around school campuses. The agencies emphasize the importance of staying Alert for Bicyclists and watching for and yielding to Children crossing the street—the 'ABCs' of school zone safety. This initiative comes as traffic patterns shift with increased drop-offs, pickups, and children walking or biking to school.
Drivers play a critical role in protecting vulnerable road users, as children outside vehicles lack the protections afforded to drivers and passengers. OTS and Caltrans advise drivers to take their time, be patient, and always obey speed limits. Extra caution is urged at crosswalks and intersections, particularly when children are present. Distracted driving, including glancing at a phone, can have tragic consequences, and impaired driving is never acceptable. Drivers should also adjust to weather and visibility conditions, and when passing bicyclists, they must wait until it is safe and provide at least three feet of space.
Pedestrians, including students, also have responsibilities for their own safety. The agencies recommend using sidewalks whenever available, and if none exist, walking facing traffic. Crossing outside of designated crosswalks should be avoided, and before crossing, pedestrians should look both ways and make eye contact with drivers to ensure they are seen. When walking after dark or in poor visibility, wearing bright or reflective clothing and carrying a light can significantly increase visibility. Staying alert—avoiding headphones and phone use while crossing—is crucial to prevent accidents.
Bicyclists are encouraged to plan routes along bike paths or roads with dedicated bike lanes, equip their bicycles with lights and reflectors, and always wear a properly fitted helmet and bright clothing. Learning hand signals to communicate turns, stops, and slowing is vital, as is staying aware of drivers and yielding to pedestrians. With the rise in e-bike usage among young people, OTS and Caltrans also highlight the importance of understanding e-bike risks and rules. E-bikes can travel faster than traditional bicycles, increasing the severity of crashes. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes reach up to 20 mph unassisted, while Class 3 e-bikes can go 28 mph. Helmet requirements vary: riders under 18 must wear helmets on Class 1-2 e-bikes, and all riders on Class 3 e-bikes must wear helmets. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike. Parents and guardians should check local laws, as many areas have specific restrictions for minors. It is also advised to avoid e-bikes without pedals, as they may be classified as e-motos and not legally permitted on roads.
The initiative underscores the shared responsibility of drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists in ensuring safe journeys to and from school. By following these guidelines, the community can reduce risks and protect children during the back-to-school season. For more information and resources, visit GoSafelyCA.org.
