As British Summer Time approaches, there’s a reminder that it also heralds the two worst months for accidents involving children.
The lighter evenings see more children playing in the streets, increasing the risk of accidents. Figures for Nottinghamshire for 2009 to 2013 show that 38% of accidents resulting in child casualties occur at the end of the school day – between 3pm and 6pm.
Although the overall number of accidents in the county resulting in a child being seriously injured or killed has steadily decreased over recent years, the council is advising drivers to take extra care at this time of year.
Zena Oliver, the county council’s principal road safety officer says: “It’s that time of year when the county’s children traditionally start to come out of hibernation, as it were.
“Initially it’ll be light until nearly 7.30pm and getting progressively later quite quickly as the weeks go by. That means there will be an increase in the number of children out playing.”
Nottinghamshire County Council advises motorists to:
- Be aware of children using roads, both as cyclists and as pedestrians.
- Watch out for children attempting to cross between parked cars.
- Watch out for children playing around parks and open spaces and remember that they can become easily distracted.
Parents are advised to:
- Remind their child to give the road their full attention.
- Ensure they choose a safe place to play, not the road.
- Ensure their child is familiar with the route they will be taking and the safer crossing places available.
- Make sure they take off headphones and switch off phones when crossing the road.
- Ensure they wear a cycle helmet and light/bright clothing when cycling.
Ms Oliver adds: “All road users need to take extra care, not only on main roads but especially in built-up residential areas.”
