AAA Urges Caution for Motorists as Students Head Back to School

As students across the Carolinas begin the school year, whether virtually or in the classroom, AAA is urging motorists to slow down and pay special attention in neighborhoods and school zones. AAA said in a statement that due to the pandemic and the fact that schools are reopening under different plans and phases, drivers aren’t sure where exactly they’ll encounter students, so it’s important to be extra vigilant and treat neighborhoods as school zones, as many are doing virtual learning and could be outside during various times throughout the day. In an effort to prevent tragedies and help communities improve neighborhood and school safety, AAA offered the following tips: slow down, eliminate distractions, watch for school buses, watch for bicycles, and talk to your kids. Let your teen know that car crashes are the leading cause of death in the US for their age group, and nearly one in four fatal crashes involving teen drivers occurs during the after-school hours of 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.