Utah Pedestrian Safety Of High Importance
Utah Gov. Gary Herbert started his day by encouraging elementary school children walkt to school safely, KSL reports (URL: http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=695&sid=12145071). He kicked off the Walk More in Four program at Rosecrest Elementary School, a Utah-wide campaign to promote biking and walking as tools to healthier and better school children.
Walking And Biking To School Is Healthy
He says healthier communities start with young people. “Walking and biking to school is a good, healthy lifestyle.” Gov. Herbert then reminded the kids to stay safe, walking or not walking. The Salt Lake County sheriff gave the students a map of the best route to take.
Bicycling can be both pleasurable and exciting. This can give school children the mobility they need for the rest of the day. It can also develop self-confidence and lasting skills among our 5 to12 year-olds, but they must learn to do it in a safe way.
If you are a parent to a Utah elementary student biker, you can ask their principal for a copy of your school’s SNAP Map. Which shows you the safest routes to walk and bike. When they ride their bikes, ALWAYS make sure that their safety-certified helmet fits properly and is worn correctly. It will prevent them from serious head injuries. Also, let them know to avoid distractions by not riding with headphones, which might keep them from hearing traffic. Wearing bright clothes is advisable to make the other drivers know that they are on the road. Playing in the road and riding on busy streets are big no-no’s.
Unfortunately, many children do not appreciate the dangers that can arise by failure to adhere to pedestrian traffic laws. As a result children 5-9 years of age account for 20% of all pedestrian deaths. It is critical that parents teach their children the importance of crossing the street at a crosswalk; obeying traffic signals; walking on a sidewalk; and only crossing in front of a school bus when the driver says it is safe.
For more information on Utah bicycle safety, contact your Utah Personal Injury Lawyer Kenneth Christensen, an experienced Utah bike accident attorney for a free copy of the Utah Bicycle Accident Handbook by calling 801-506-0800.
