They may be excited to see a friend and totally forget about where to cross streets at safe crosswalks. They may be walking and talking and maybe even texting and not paying attention to traffic.
GEICO urges teen drivers, particularly new teen drivers, to be on high alert for young students on their way to and from school and near playgrounds and parks.
Some important tips for teen drivers:
Be aware of school zones. There may be several school zones on your morning and afternoon route; remember where they are and slow down for the reduced speed limits.
Expect the unexpected. Children are unpredictable. They haven’t all mastered safe behaviors.
Slow down near playgrounds and parks. Play areas are filled with excitement which means children without thinking may run into the street chasing balls or toys.
Know the rules about school buses. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that has stopped to pick up or drop off children. Always stay a safe distance away and be prepared for frequent stops. Do not tailgate.
Be patient. There will be more traffic with school buses and parent car pools. Give yourself extra driving time so you won’t try to make up the time due to any school day delays.
Pay particular attention at alleys and driveways. Kids on bikes can come darting out without stopping to look in all directions.
Put down your phone. No texting. You don’t need any added distractions when kids are in the neighborhood.
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States. GEICO handles auto insurance coverage for over 11 million private passenger auto policies and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).
In addition to auto insurance, GEICO offers customers insurance products for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for boats, collector cars, life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency. Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available. For more information, go to http://www.geico.com.
As a member of the Berkshire Hathaway group of companies, GEICO is rated A++ for financial strength by A.M. Best Company and ranks at the top of several national customer satisfaction surveys.
Source:
GEICO Communications
301-986-3271
