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Walking to School? Heads Up, Not Down.

14 Aug 2025 In Driving Tips, Education, Parent Portal

Walking to School? Heads Up, Not Down.

Walking to school might feel like a simple, safe choice — but with school zone traffic, distracted drivers, and phones in hand, it can be riskier than you think.

Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a community member, making sidewalks and crosswalks safer starts with awareness — and action.

 

📊 The Reality: Pedestrian Danger Is Real

In 2022, more than 7,500 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. — the highest number in over 40 years (GHSA, 2023). Teens aged 15–19 have some of the highest rates of pedestrian injury, especially in urban and school-adjacent areas.

And the top contributing factor? Distraction — for both drivers and walkers.

 

🔌 Heads Up, Not Down: Why It Matters

You might think checking your phone while walking is harmless — but here’s what you’re risking:

  • Missing cars that don’t yield
  • Ignoring signals or crosswalk alerts
  • Being invisible to drivers during early or late school hours
  • Losing your awareness of your surroundings

👀 Your eyes up and ears open = your safest move.

 

🧠 Smart Walking Tips for Back to School

✅ 1. Cross at Crosswalks Only

And don’t assume drivers will stop — make eye contact with the driver before stepping into the road.

✅ 2. Ditch the Distractions

Don’t text while walking near roads. It only takes 2 seconds of looking down to miss a hazard.

🎧 And if you’re wearing earbuds, keep one ear out so you can hear traffic, horns, and emergency sirens.

✅ 3. Be Bright, Be Seen

Especially during early mornings or stormy weather. Wear light-colored or reflective gear.

You can even add reflective stickers to your backpack or shoes.

✅ 4. Never Assume They See You

Even if you’re in the right, never step out just because the walk signal is flashing. Defensive walking can save your life.

 

🏫 For Parents & Educators: Set the Standard

  • Review walking routes with your child
  • Walk with them the first few days
  • Encourage them to buddy up
  • Model safe walking behavior — especially at school pick-up/drop-off
  • Talk about why distractions are dangerous, not just that they are

🔗 Extra Resources

📲 Keep the Conversation Going

We’re sharing safety tips for getting to school all month long on Instagram — come check it out, tag a friend who walks to school, and help spread awareness.

📸 Follow us: @FLTeenSafeDriving

🌐 More on Bike and Pedestrian Safety at: FTSDC Website