With the new school year underway, traffic around school campuses has increased, bringing heightened risks for children walking, biking, or being driven to school. To address this, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and Caltrans are urging all road users to follow their “ABCs” on every trip: stay Alert for Bicyclists and watch for and yield to Children crossing the street. This initiative aims to prevent accidents and ensure that students reach their destinations safely.
For drivers, the responsibility is significant because children on foot or on bikes lack the protection of a vehicle. Key tips include taking time to be patient, always obeying speed limits, and using extra caution at crosswalks and intersections, especially when children are nearby. Distracted driving is particularly dangerous; even a quick glance at a phone can have tragic consequences. Drivers should never drive impaired and should adjust to conditions such as rain or darkness. When passing bicyclists, drivers must wait until it is safe and provide at least three feet of clearance.
Pedestrians also play a crucial role in their own safety. They should use sidewalks when available, and if none exist, walk facing traffic. Crossing only at designated crosswalks and looking both ways before stepping into the street are essential habits. Making eye contact with drivers before crossing can ensure visibility. In low-light conditions, wearing bright or reflective clothing and carrying a light can make pedestrians more noticeable. Staying alert—avoiding headphones and phone use while crossing—is critical.
Bicyclists, including those on e-bikes, must prioritize visibility and awareness. Planning routes along bike paths or dedicated lanes, equipping bikes with lights and reflectors, and wearing properly fitted helmets and bright clothing are recommended. Learning hand signals helps communicate intentions to others. Bicyclists should always yield to pedestrians and stay aware of surrounding traffic.
Given the rise in e-bike usage among young people, OTS and Caltrans emphasize the need for riders and parents to understand the risks. E-bikes can reach higher speeds—up to 28 mph for Class 3 models—increasing the severity of crashes. Rules vary by class: helmets are required for riders under 18 on Class 1-2 e-bikes and for all riders on Class 3 e-bikes. Riders must be at least 16 years old for Class 3 e-bikes. It is crucial to never ride e-bikes without pedals, as they may be classified as e-motos and prohibited on roads. Riders should stick to bike lanes or legal paths, be predictable, and exercise caution when turning or in poor visibility. Local laws may impose additional restrictions, so contacting local law enforcement is advised.
The “ABCs” campaign serves as a reminder that safety is a shared responsibility. By staying alert and following these guidelines, everyone can contribute to a safer school environment. For more information and resources, visit GoSafelyCA.org.
