Car Accidents School Zones

Car Accidents in School Zones: Legal Responsibilities and Safety Precautions

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School zones are areas around schools where reduced speed limits are in effect at certain times to protect children. However, despite the risks, many drivers still speed through these areas, putting students in danger. In Pensacola, Florida, car accidents in school zones remain a serious concern. Understanding the legal responsibilities and taking safety precautions are key to reducing school zone crashes in the area.

The Dangers of Speeding Through Pensacola School Zones

Excessive speeding represents one of the greatest dangers to children in and around Pensacola schools. Speed plays a major role in approximately one-third of all fatal crashes, demonstrating its inherent hazard. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is a direct correlation between speed and crash severity – when speed increases, so does the risk of injury or death in a collision.

Pedestrians also face significantly higher fatality rates when struck by faster-moving vehicles. Approximately 90% of pedestrians survive when hit by cars traveling under 20mph. However, at speeds over 40mph, pedestrian fatality rates jump to 85%. These alarming statistics highlight why reduced speed limits of 15-20mph are set around Pensacola schools.

Higher speeds are especially perilous around schools because this environment has much more activity and potential hazards. Children frequently cross streets, wait for buses, exit cars, and walk or bike to campuses around arrival and dismissal times. High speeds give motorists less time to react to dangers and extend stopping distances.

For example, at 20mph, a car travels 29 feet per second and needs 43 feet to stop with full braking. But at 40mph, the vehicle covers 59 feet per second and requires 126 feet to come to a complete stop. By dangerously exceeding school zone limits, drivers lose crucial reaction time and the ability to brake effectively if a child appears. Caution and reduced speeds are necessary to avoid becoming a hazard and costing a child their future.

Legal Consequences of Causing an Accident in a Pensacola School Zone

When speeding or negligence results in a car accident within a Pensacola school zone, the at-fault driver faces severe legal repercussions beyond just traffic fines. Because children are inherently vulnerable road users, injuring or killing a student may be grounds for criminal charges such as vehicular manslaughter.

In addition to criminal liability, a driver causing personal injury or wrongful death also faces civil liability. Victims or families harmed by a negligent motorist may pursue legal action and compensation. Their insurance company will likely be responsible for covering crash damages like medical bills, lost income, disability accommodations, pain and suffering, and wrongful death damages.

To receive full legal compensation after being harmed in a school zone accident, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is strongly advised. An attorney can help establish fault, file claims, value damages accurately, and negotiate the maximum settlement for victims and families.

Preventing Car Accidents in Pensacola School Zones: Important Steps for Motorists

While legislation, enforcement, and legal consequences help combat school zone speeding dangers to an extent, drivers must also take responsibility for prevention. Motorists should implement the following practices to enhance safety and avoid tragic accidents in Pensacola school zones:

  • Obeying posted speed limits – Never exceed reduced school zone speed limits during specified hours. Set your cruise control at the exact legal limit if needed.
  • Eliminating distractions – Refrain from cell phone use, programming navigation, or any activities that divert attention from the road near schools.
  • Watching for children – Scan ahead for kids near curbs, crossing streets, waiting for buses, or exiting cars in school zones.
  • Braking early – Begin decelerating well before crosswalks or bus stops to allow extra stopping time if a child appears.
  • Scanning carefully – Check side mirrors and blind spots thoroughly when changing lanes or turning in school areas.
  • Yielding to pedestrians – Allow students plenty of time to cross safely at crosswalks. Do not rush them.
  • Backing cautiously – When backing out of driveways or parking spots, inch slowly and double-check for small children.
  • Focusing fully – Do not drive drowsy or unfocused. Remain vigilant for hazards like balls rolling into streets.
  • Allowing follow distance – Leave ample space between vehicles to provide reaction time if kids run into the roadway.

By incorporating cautious driving habits within school zones, motorists can significantly reduce risks and prevent avoidable tragedies. Patience and attentiveness are key. The few minutes saved speeding simply are not worth endangering our children. We all must do our part to keep school zones safe.

Injured in an Auto Accident in Pensacola? Contact Our Seasoned Attorneys for Legal Guidance

Car accidents around schools put young lives at risk daily, but drivers can improve safety by adhering to lower speed limits, staying alert, and taking extra precautions near Pensacola schools. In spite of our best efforts, however, accidents still happen. If you or someone close to you got hurt in a car crash that was the fault of another party, Whibbs, Stone, Barnett & Turner, PA is here to help. Contact us today at 850-434-5395 or reach us online to set up a free consultation and case assessment.