Alaska Schools Are In Session

Whether a driver or a pedestrian, you may think an enormous yellow school bus is hard to miss. The key is not just to see the bus, but to be vigilant when it stops. School buses utilize flashing lights and a protective arm before opening their doors to allow students on and off the bus. Here are some considerations to remember now that Alaska Schools are in session:

• Give school buses a wide berth.
• Watch children who may dash toward and away from school buses.
• PAY ATTENTION – It is against the law to ignore a school bus “STOP” sign.
• Give children entering or exiting a bus the right of way.
• Watch for even more pedestrians and bicyclists on the road now that Alaska Schools are in session.
• Pedestrians and bicyclists have the right of way in crosswalks.
• Be especially careful when turning right at a red light. 

School Zones

Now that Alaska Schools Are In Session, those school zone crosswalks are even more critical. Identified by yellow signs including: SCHOOL CROSSING or SCHOOL XING as well as pedestrian images, these signs establish school pedestrian routes adjacent to schools. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.

Similarly, Alaska DOT has signs indicating “School Bus Stop Ahead.” This sign is normally used where drivers are not able to see the flashing lights of a school bus 700 feet in advance of the bus stop. While school zones have maximum speed limits, drivers must drive at speeds safe for conditions. This means driving less than the maximum speed when necessary. 

Alaska Schools Are In Session – Children And Reflective Gear

Think about school safety before the days grow shorter now that Alaska Schools are in session. Purchase backpacks and other gear with reflective material. Purchase reflective shoes and jackets. If your child’s backpack, clothing or shoes aren’t reflective, apply reflective tape to your child’s school gear and outerwear. Reflective gear helps drivers see your child. 

School Donations Make a Difference

Alaska Schools Are In Session. Whether you have school age children or not, please donate to your local school. While picking up a few extra notebooks, boxes of crayons, glue sticks, scissors, or pens, throw in reflective tape. Families and schools will appreciate your generosity. For most communities, a few dollars makes a huge difference. Spend a few dollars and save a life. 

Johnson Law has been serving Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your serious injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Alaska State Legislature

Image Source: Alaska Beacon

Bus Stops

Alaska’s 2025 School Year is upon us. Buses offer both safe and convenient transportation. At the same time, there are concerns to consider regarding bus stop safety. Bus stops are often strategically chosen for convenience. There are certain dangers associated with waiting at a bus stop. Teach your children to stay at least six feet (three giant steps) away from the road when waiting for the bus. Remind children that bus stops are not places to play.

Children should arrive at least five minutes before the scheduled bus stop pickup time. Teach children who cross the road to board the bus to:

• Look both ways before crossing the street;
• Always walk roughly ten feet in front of the bus so the driver can see the child crossing; and
• Make eye contact with the bus driver before running in front of the bus – every time.

Alaska’s 2025 School Year is starting and weather changes rapidly in Alaska. Prepare children for colder weather and late buses. Ensure your child wears appropriate clothing for the weather, including gloves, hats and boots. Children should wear bright clothing when possible so passing drivers can see the children easily.

Alaska’s 2025 School Year Is Here – Be Aware

Slow down… Alaska’s 2025 School Year is here. If you know a bus stop or school is located near your home, watch for children while backing out of your driveway or garage. Use caution when traveling before school starts and after school ends each day. When you see a bus with red flashing lights, stop at least 30 feet from the bus. Never pass a stopped school bus.

Always watch for children near school buses and bus stops. Alaska’s 2025 School Year has started – Slow Down, Alaska.

School Zones

Alaska’s schools designate zones where drivers must be more cautious and watch for children. Slow down Alaska. The speed limit in school zones decreases so that drivers can stop suddenly if needed. Children may not see cars coming when they cross the road. They may be distracted by other children, parents, teachers or other vehicles. In some cases, children do not look before crossing the road because they do not consider the danger. It is up to Alaska’s drivers to allow time to stop quickly in a school zone in case a child runs out in front of their vehicle.

Alaska’s 2025 School Year – Stay Alert

Cars sometimes stop quickly in a school zone. It is important for Alaska’s drivers to stay alert, so they do not hit another vehicle or person. Focus on driving. Put away distractions such as cell phones and food. Watch your surroundings and prepare for sudden stops. When possible, crack a window and listen for sounds outside of your vehicle to help stay alert. Alaska’s 2025 School Year is starting – Slow Down – our kids are back in school. They are walking, biking, and riding the bus.

With schools back in session, driving safely in school zones is important in protecting our children. If your child suffers injuries from an accident caused by a negligent driver, contact an Alaska personal injury law firm for guidance on how to pursue your child’s claims.

Johnson Law has been serving Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your serious injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Alaska Department of Education & Early Development; Alaska Council of School Administrators; and Justia U.S. Law

Image Source: Alaska News Source