The Tribune

MOTORISTS - school is out!

And unfortunately this is also a time when children are at increased risk of transport-related injuries from pedestrian, bicycle and motor vehicle crashes.

The reason is obvious: there are many more children on the streets each morning and afternoon, as well as an overall change in motorists’ patterns.

Therefore during the summer break, it’s time for motorists to improve their traffic safety practices. The following tips from Royal Bahamas Police Force National Crime Prevention Office can help make this a safe and happy summer for the entire Bahamas.

• Slow down. Obey all traffic laws and speed limits.

• Be extra cautious while driving, slow down and watch for children on their way to summer school and camps.

• When driving in neighbourhoods, watch out for children who are riding their bicycles or playing in the streets.

• Allow children waiting at a pedestrian crossing to cross.

• Be alert and ready to stop. Watch for children walking in the streets, especially where there are no sidewalks.

• When using an intersection where children are trying to cross, slow down; make eye contact with the children to determine what they are going to do next.

• Always stop for a jitney that has stopped to load and unload passengers.

• Before entering a pedestrian crossing area, be sure there are no children in the lane or adjacent lanes.

• When passing a parked vehicle, check for children who may run out into the street.

Please share this information with every driver in your family. Let’s all work together to ensure that we have a safe and enjoyable summer. Remember that safety is everyone’s concern.