Try these simple steps for a safe start to the school year

As we gear up for another school year, excitement and new routines can make safety an afterthought for many families. 

But traffic accidents tend to spike in back-to-school season, when everyone's adjusting to different schedules. 

Here are some simple steps you can take to avoid accidents.

Drive carefully around schools

• Slow down in school zones. Those flashing lights aren't suggestions. Reduced speeds give you time to react if a child steps into the road unexpectedly.
• Never pass a stopped school bus with flashing red lights. It's a warning sign that kids may be crossing the street.
• Watch out for kids at bus stops. Try to anticipate erratic behavior if they're excited, distracted or running late.

Help your kids develop street smarts

• Practice safe crossing. Show little ones how to use crosswalks, look both ways and wait for walk signals. Young children should always have an adult with them.
• Put devices away. Phones and headphones prevent kids from hearing cars, horns or other important sounds.
• Be visible. Bright or reflective clothes help drivers see kids walking or biking, especially in low light.

Talk to teen drivers

If you have a teenager with a driver's license, back-to-school season is a good time to review safe habits.

• Set passenger limits. Each additional teen passenger increases the risk of an accident.
• Model good behavior. Teens copy what they see, so follow traffic laws and avoid using your own phone while driving.
• Practice under new conditions. If your teen learned to drive in the summer, they may need help adjusting to fall weather and busier traffic.

Make it routine

Most back-to-school accidents are preventable. A few minutes of preparation can help everyone's school year get off to a healthy start.