Slow Down

The speed limit in Alaska School Driving Zones decreases so that drivers can stop quicker. Children may not see cars coming when they cross the road, or 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 drivers to allow themselves enough time to stop quickly in case a child runs out in front of their vehicle.

Stay Alert

Cars may stop quickly in school zones. It is important to stay alert, so you do not hit another vehicle, or person. Put distractions such as cell phones and food away to focus on driving. Prepare for sudden stops and watch your surroundings. When possible, crack a window so you can listen to sounds outside of your vehicle to help stay alert.

Alaska School Driving Zones

With the academic year back in session, slowing down and being aware is important in protecting our children. If your child suffers injuries from an accident caused by a negligent driver, it is up to you to get help for your child. If a driver hurts your child in an Alaska School Driving Zone. Call a qualified Alaska Injury Attorney to assist you in pursuing your child’s claims.

Slow Down Alaska and keep our children safer.

Johnson Law has been serving victims of accidents in Alaska School Driving Zones 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

Source: The Alaska Legislature

Image Source: Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

Teach Your Children About Alaska School Bus Safety

Bus stops are often strategically chosen for convenience and safety but there are still dangers associated with waiting at a bus stop. Let your children know they should 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 tag or run around.

Children should arrive at least five minutes before the scheduled bus stop time. Children needing to cross the road to board the bus should know to look both ways before crossing the street. They should always walk in front of the school bus, not behind. Kids should walk roughly ten feet in front of the bus so the driver can see the child crossing. Children should always wait and make eye contact with the bus driver before running out in front of the bus.

In Alaska, children should be prepared for colder weather and buses arriving late. 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.

Driver Responsibilities

If you know a bus stop or school is located near your home, be sure to look for children when backing out of your driveway or garage. Use caution when traveling before school starts and after school ends each day. If you see a bus stopped with red flashing lights, stop at least 30 feet from the bus and never pass a stopped school bus.

Always look for children near school buses and bus stops. We can teach children about safety but it is everyone’s responsibility to create a safe environment and make sure children are arriving home safely after each school day.

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

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: School Bus Safety; Justia U.S. Law

Image Source: Anchorage School District

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

Back to School Prep In Alaska

Back-to-school preparations in Alaska include typical tasks like getting supplies and clothes, but also involve specific considerations for the unique Alaskan environment and lifestyle. Families should focus on preparing for potential weather challenges, including cold temperatures and snow, and ensuring children are safe and prepared for outdoor learning opportunities during Alaska’s 2025 School Year. 

How to Plan

First, get supplies ready. Check the list that your child’s school provides to make sure your child has everything. Next, set aside a distraction free area in your home so your children can stay focused while completing homework. Finally, establish a routine to get ready for the first day of school. Start adjusting sleep patterns. Create a morning routine so when the first day of school arrives, you and your kids are ready to go.

Key Ways To Observe National Back to School Prep Day:

• Establish routines: Start practicing school-day wake-up and bedtime routines in the weeks leading up to the first day of school.
• Familiarize yourself with the school: Take a tour, meet teachers, and learn about your child’s learning environment.
• Review safety procedures: Discuss safe routes for walking, traffic safety awareness, and stranger danger with children. 
• Prepare supplies: Check the supply list and gather necessary items. 
• Connect with the community: Introduce yourself to teachers and other parents. 

Why It’s Important

Back to school prep is a chance to build your children’s excitement about the new academic year. There’s a special feeling about it. Summer vacation is ending, which may seem sudden to your children. Back to school prep is a great chance to help your kids look forward to what lays ahead of them. Create memories by talking about the new year and taking pictures to look back on later.

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

Images Source: Alaska News Source