September is back to school time. That means there will more kids on or around our roadways, waiting for school buses, walking or biking to school. All vehicle drivers need to be more aware and be on the look out for kids – they don’t always know to look out for us.
Recycling Trucks
Across the board, our industry operates and utilizes the service of trucks. They are used to pick up, transport and deliver recyclable materials to processing facilities and end markets. The trucks vary in size from small, box trucks, front loaders that provide curbside collections, roll-offs, which haul material in open tops in compactor containers, and tractor trailers. Please refer to a previous blog we wrote about truck safety on highways. Truck and bus safety on secondary roads is equally important.
School Buses
School buses are big and visibility around them is quite limited. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, from 2003-2012, 30 percent of school age pedestrians that die in school transportation related accidents were struck by another vehicle on the road. All companies and drivers of any vehicles, whether it be trucks, cars or buses, need to be aware that September is an important time of year to pay particular attention to traffic, other vehicles and especially, the kids.
Stop – it’s the law
In order to protect children, states have enacted stopping laws. These laws dictate when you must stop your vehicle for a school bus. The rule of thumb: The second you see the bus lights flashing be ready to stop. The penalties for violations can be severe.
It is up to us as industry leaders to make sure our drivers pay particular attention now and throughout the school year – to keep our children and grandchildren safe when around our roadways, and traveling to and from school.
Slow down, be aware, and be safe. School is in session.
Contact us if you would like further information or have any questions.