MSHP shares back to school safety tips
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging parents and students to be safe when heading back to school this August.
MSHP reports that, in 2024, seven people were killed and 345 were injured in traffic crashes involving a school bus.
In Missouri last year, a total of 843 traffic crashes involved a school bus.
When it comes to recommendations for students, MSHP said it's important to stay alert to surroundings.
If a student is walking to school, cross the street at intersections or marked crosswalks and never between parked cars. Make eye contact with drivers when crossing the street to make sure they're aware.
Use sidewalks when available, and if it's necessary to walk on the roadway, stay close to the left edge and step off to the left when traffic approaches. Never run into the street.
If a student is riding a bicycle to school, be sure to wear a helmet and obey all traffic signs and signals. Ride as near to the right side of the roadway as is safe, and use proper hand signals when changing directions, slowing down or stopping.
Never carry passengers when riding a bike and make sure to keep both hands on the handlebars, except when signaling.
If a student is riding the bus, MSHP encourages checking the weather and dressing accordingly. Wait in line for the bus on the shoulder or the sidewalk.
Additionally, students crossing the street need to walk at least 10 feet in front of the bus.
MSHP also said parents are encouraged to talk to their children about safety tips, depending on their mode of transportation.
Motorists are asked to always be vigilant, especially near school zones, playgrounds, bicycle paths and crosswalks, when school is in session.
MSHP said most traffic crashes involving young drivers, under the age of 21, occur between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., when school typically lets out. The agency also encourages parents to remind young drivers to remember driving is a full-time job, and that using a cell phone, texting or adjusting the radio can be a distraction that leads to a traffic crash.
