Common Causes of Back-to-School Car Accidents and How to Avoid Them

August 20, 2024 | Back to Blog

As summer winds down and students return to school, the roads around Las Vegas become increasingly busy. The back-to-school rush often leads to a surge in traffic, creating a higher risk of car accidents. Whether you’re a parent driving your kids to school or a commuter sharing the road with school buses and pedestrians, it’s essential to be aware of the common causes of accidents during this time and how to avoid them.

At Morris Injury Law, we understand the challenges drivers face during the school year and are here to help if you find yourself involved in an accident. As experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyers, we’ve seen how preventable many of these incidents can be. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe on the road this back-to-school season.

Common Causes of Back-to-School Car Accidents

1. Distracted Driving

One of the most common causes of accidents during the back-to-school rush is distracted driving. With the increased number of vehicles on the road, drivers may find themselves dealing with more distractions, such as:

Mobile Phones: Texting, calling, or using apps while driving.
In-Car Distractions: Managing children in the back seat, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving.
Outside Distractions: Paying attention to school zone signs, pedestrians, or school buses instead of the road.

How to Avoid It:
To minimize distractions, make it a habit to put your phone away before driving. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe location. Ensure your passengers are settled and comfortable before you start driving, and avoid eating or adjusting controls while on the move. Stay focused on the road, especially in school zones where children may be crossing.

2. Speeding

Speeding is a significant factor in many back-to-school car accidents. The temptation to speed can be high, especially when running late or trying to navigate heavy traffic. However, speeding in school zones or near bus stops greatly increases the likelihood of an accident.

How to Avoid It:
Always adhere to posted speed limits, especially in school zones where limits are often lower during school hours. Plan your route ahead of time to avoid the need to rush, and leave earlier than usual to account for traffic delays. Remember, slowing down not only reduces the risk of an accident but also gives you more time to react to unexpected situations.

3. Heavy Traffic

The back-to-school season brings a significant increase in traffic, particularly during morning and afternoon commutes. School buses, parents dropping off kids, and students walking or biking to school all contribute to congestion. This increase in traffic can lead to frustration, aggressive driving, and ultimately, accidents.

How to Avoid It:
Anticipate traffic delays and adjust your schedule accordingly. Consider alternative routes that bypass school zones, or leave earlier or later to avoid peak traffic times. Practicing patience and maintaining a safe following distance can help reduce the chances of a collision in heavy traffic.

4. Failing to Yield

Failing to yield the right of way is another common cause of back-to-school car accidents. This can happen at crosswalks, intersections, or when school buses are loading or unloading children. Drivers may be in a hurry and fail to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles.

How to Avoid It:
Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and obey crossing guards’ signals. When approaching an intersection, slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary. If you encounter a school bus with its stop sign extended, come to a complete stop and wait until the sign is retracted and the bus moves before proceeding.

5. Inexperienced Teen Drivers

The beginning of the school year often coincides with new, inexperienced teen drivers on the road. These drivers may lack the experience to handle heavy traffic, distractions, and other challenges that come with the back-to-school rush.

How to Avoid It:
If you are a parent, ensure your teen has had sufficient practice and understands the rules of the road, especially regarding school zones and pedestrian safety. Encourage them to avoid distractions, adhere to speed limits, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Back-to-School Car Accident

Even with the best precautions, accidents can still happen. If you find yourself involved in a car accident during the back-to-school rush, it’s essential to take the following steps:

Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Exchange Information: Get the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved.
Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible and provide them with the necessary details.
Consult a Las Vegas Car Accident Attorney: Contact an experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyer to protect your rights and help you navigate the legal process.

Contact a Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer Today

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, especially during the busy back-to-school season. At Morris Injury Law, our skilled Las Vegas car accident attorneys are here to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Las Vegas, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact Morris Injury Law today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Morris Injury Law or call us at 702-850-5555. Let our expertise and dedication work for you.

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