There are 12 schools in Kokomo, Indiana, and many more across other districts. During term times, this means a lot of kids near the roads. Drivers always have a duty to be careful, but this is especially the case when kids are present.
Sadly, road traffic collisions are one of the leading causes of child-related fatalities in the U.S. One of the most frustrating aspects of this is that many car accidents are preventable. In other words, they are the result of negligence. Children are especially susceptible to being run over when walking to school or being dropped off or collected by the school bus.
Why do so many child-related road accidents occur?
Failure to reduce speed
Excessive speeds are of particular concern in school zones. The simple fact is that too many drivers don’t slow down in these areas. The government has put speed restrictions in place in school zones in Kokomo, but these are being ignored too often. It is currently unlawful for any vehicle to travel over 25 mph in designated school zones.
While parents, schools, government authorities and bus services have a duty to try and keep children safe on the roads, they cannot account for reckless and negligent drivers. Children, especially children of a young age, just don’t have the skills to properly judge the speed and distances of vehicles.
Other factors that contribute to child-related road accidents include:
- Road rage
- Intoxication
- Congestion
- Poor road designs
- Lack of crossings
If your child was injured through the negligence of another driver, then you may be able to hold them to account. Seeking legal guidance will give you further insight into personal injury laws.
