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SALT LAKE CITY — In 2012, a 14-year-old boy was walking to West High School when a pickup truck turned into the crosswalk and hit him. The boy was taken to the hospital with head injuries in extremely critical condition, where he later died.
Defensive driving is something that's being recognized throughout Utah and the nation as thousands of kids walk or ride their bikes to school at the start of the school year this week.
In 2012, 21 teens died on Utah roads. Those numbers decreased from 41 teen fatalities five years earlier and then 23 fatalities in 2011.
The National Safety Council is urging people to be prepared with a guide online going over how kids should dress if they're walking or riding and what drivers should look for during the early hours. Kids should always walk in a group and wear bright colors in the early hours of the day.
Parent Lynda also said she felt better knowing that officials are taking extra steps towards safety as she sent her fourth grader to school Monday.
"I know that we have people here as crossing guards officers," Blades said. "I really appreciate that."
- Always walk in a group
- Always walk on the sidewalk if there's one available. If not, walk facing traffic
- 10-year-olds and younger should always cross the street with an adult
- Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle
- Wear bright colors when walking or riding in the early morning or evening
Source: NSC.org
However, police officers said that safety isn't just up to the driver to use caution. Adam Osoro, an officer with the Woods Cross Police department, said parents need to take responsibility as well for their kids.
"It is very important that parents sit their children down and talk to them about traffic safety," Osoro said. "Where and when to cross the roads."
Drivers should remember that child pedestrians are always the least predicable.
The Salt Lake City Police Department warns against distracted driving and says you might not only have to live with the guilt, but a traffic violation could range from an infractions to a felony. This year its goal is to have zero auto-pedestrian accidents.
"There (are) going to be more kids on the road from school, so we want drivers to be aware," said Lt. Tyrone Farillas with the Salt Lake City Police Department. "Watch your speeds, (especially) around schools. We definitely want our kids to be safe going to school and coming home from school."
Several high school seniors have come forward saying they feel people don't realize how quickly something can go wrong and in one second road conditions can change.
The NSC is asking all families to read over these packets. They are filled with information to help safeguard you and your family. You can find them on the NSC website at NSC.org.
