Children of all ages have hit upon their most wonderful time of the year as school is out for nearly all elementary students across the region today or tomorrow.
Many months of being inside on weekdays will very shortly give way to the freedom and abandon that comes with the summer break. And that taste of liberty can sometimes cause youngsters to be a little reckless out there. So adults behind the wheel have to take note of the increased pedestrian traffic they'll come across.
For motorists used to keeping their eyes peeled in school safety zones and when letting off junior and picking him up, it's time to readjust to summer driving.
That will require a little more vigilance throughout the day as children will now be bike-riding, inline-skating, skateboarding and running around when the streets are usually kid-free.
While the onus is on parents to make sure their children follow proper safety rules and wear appropriate equipment, it's vital that drivers be especially aware.
Take it easy out there. It's wise to take a little longer to get where you need to go, rather than rush and face a lifetime of regret. The age-old rules apply. Slow down on residential streets, keep to the speed limits in safety zones, and be really careful in areas where parked cars are plentiful. You never know when a child could come rushing into the street for whatever reason.
It's also important to take extra care when making turns. There will be more children on bikes and walking across streets, so keep your head up when checking the road. A child on a bike can come upon you quickly especially if you have been waiting to make a turn and have been looking in one direction for a break in traffic before turning in another direction. Take the time to be safe.
A reminder too that cellphone use is now prohibited while driving and even the use of hands-free devices can be a distraction. Keep the coffee-drinking, eating and other activities that can take your mind off the road to a minimum. If you take your eyes off what's in front of you -- even for several seconds -- it can lead to disaster.
Remember that driving, even in ideal conditions, requires concentration and awareness. The lives of our young people depend on you being a careful, defensive driver. Be safe for their sake.
-- Metroland Durham Region Media Group
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