Are Kids Safe Near Roads at School?
Students utilizing the crosswalk on Norman Thagard Blvd. Mico Jimenez / Eagle Talon
Many parents raise their concerns about school traffic near schools after recent incidents.
The new school year began with renewed urgency for student safety, following a tragic vehicle accident in the first week.
DCPS has reported multiple fatal accidents involving students last year, which led to the district launching the “Be Safe. Be Seen.” campaign.
The “Be Safe. Be Seen.” campaign helped teach students how to ride bikes and walk safely on the sides of the road, as stated in a News4Jax article. This campaign aimed to raise awareness among drivers and pedestrians, promoting safety for all.
Despite these efforts, new incidents occurred as the school year began, renewing the focus on protecting students.
“Three students in Duval County were struck by cars in just three school days, with one of the students dying from their injuries,” the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office stated in a News4Jax article.
These incidents have raised concerns amongst parents, students, and the school board. Even though the focus of the “Be Safe. Be Seen.” campaign concentrated on students, the district is also making sure that all pedestrians, student or not, are protected to help reduce traffic accidents.
“We need to do better in terms of crossing at crosswalks, and also better in terms of protecting pedestrians who are in crosswalks by stopping and letting them cross safely,” School Board Member Cindy Pearson stated in a News4Jax article. Pearson has created safety measures like advocating for less distracted driving, having council members add “No Parking” signs, and having JSO ticket drivers who do not adhere to pedestrian crossings.
Last school year, Duval County saw the deaths of three students due to car accidents, and these incidents have brought up memories. Alejandra Martinez was the sister of Alondra Martinez, who was one of the students who passed away due to the car accident that occurred last year.