As the days grow shorter and the mornings a little cooler, there’s no mistaking it—back to school season has arrived. For many families, this means a return to routines, bus stops, and busy school zones. For drivers, parents, and children alike, it also means a heightened need for awareness and safety on our roads.
At Higgins Insurance, safety is at the heart of what we do. This season, we’ve gathered advice from parents, school bus drivers, and road safety experts to help ensure everyone gets to and from school safely.
A Parent’s Perspective on Bus Safety
One of our brokers believes awareness is the key to instilling safe habits in children. They had this to say:
“We always have a conversation with our children about looking both ways, staying slow, and watching your friends. The most important aspect of bus safety to me as a father is taking your time when you are off the bus. Drivers are not used to the school year traffic and the buses stopping everywhere. I tell my children not to cross just because the bus’ stop sign is up—look everywhere and wait until it is safe.”
Children of all ages are at risk during the school year, and ongoing conversations about how streets and traffic operate are critical.
Safe Driving Tips from Experts
Jeff Cronk, Vice President CURO Claims, shares his Top 10 Back-to-School Essentials for Drivers:
Slow down in school zones; expect sudden stops and crossings.
Always stop for school buses with flashing red lights and stop arms in both directions (unless separated by a median).
Build extra time into your routine—add 10–15 minutes in the morning to avoid rushing.
Use designated drop-off and pick-up zones; avoid U-turns or double-parking.
Keep a safe following distance (3–4 seconds minimum); never pass in school lanes.
Yield to crossing guards and at crosswalks—make eye contact before proceeding.
Give new drivers space; anticipate unexpected lane changes.
Watch for bikes and walkers; always check mirrors, shoulders, and crosswalks before turning.
Prep your car: headlights at dawn/dusk, good wipers, and proper tire pressure.
If a crash happens: photograph vehicle positions, signage, and bus signals; collect witness information.
The most common claims this time of year? Rear-end collisions, low-speed parking lot crashes, and bus stop violations. The best prevention: time + space.
Guidance from Law Enforcement
Police officers see firsthand how busy and unpredictable the roads become once school starts. Sgt. Evan Scott and Cpl. McKay both shared reminders to help keep kids safe this year.
- Sgt. Evan Scott reminds us:
“School zone speeds aren’t just for morning drop-offs or afternoon pick-ups. Kids are out at recess, lunch, and for activities throughout the day. Slowing down and paying attention all day long makes a big difference. Crossing guards are there to protect children—if they say stop, even when the light turns green, you stop. And remember, never pass a bus with flashing lights. Children can dart out at any time, so staying alert is key.”
- Cpl. McKay adds:
“The first day of school means more buses on the roads, and more students walking, biking, riding scooters, and even driving. Drivers need to expect that and give themselves more time. And most importantly—you must stop for school buses with flashing lights, no exceptions. Slow down in school zones too. Not only can speeding cost you fines and demerit points, but it puts children’s lives at risk.”
Insights from the Drivers Who Know Best
No one understands the importance of road safety during the school year better than school bus drivers. Here’s what they had to say:
Wesley Wills:
“Give the bus room to move. At least three car lengths behind. Tailgating creates a blind spot, and buses need space for wider turns.”
Kelly Way McCurdy:
“Leave sooner, drive slower, live longer. Every stop a school bus makes is a new beginning in the life of a child. Allow yourself extra time on the road to make safer decisions.”
Gerald Murphy:
“At the start of every school year, we explain to our students how important it is to follow all rules and be kind to each other. Safety First Always—it’s more than a phrase, it’s a commitment.”
Dennis Shaw:
“I chose a career as a School Bus Driver because I’ve always had a passion for safety and enjoy working with children. Being thanked daily for doing my job well makes me go home with a happy heart.”
Jeff Romard:
“My name is Jeff Romard a bus driver with the Cape Breton Victoria Regional Center For Education. I chose bus driving because it’s very rewarding knowing you have in some way helped out children to receive an education and got them there safely
A few tips for the school year for students
Be early, not rushing. Get to the bus stop 5 minutes before pickup. Running after the bus is dangerous.
Stay back from the curb. Wait at least 10 feet away until the bus comes to a full stop and the doors open.
No horseplay at the stop. Save the games for recess—stay safe where cars and buses are moving.
Look both ways. Even if traffic is supposed to stop, double-check before crossing the road.
Make eye contact with me. I want to see you before you step in front of the bus so I know you’re safe.
Remember, safety first. The bus ride is the first and last part of your school day—let’s make it a good one.”
Michael Tanker Malley:
“This will be my 40th year driving School Bus. It’s my honor and privilege of driving kids to school and back everyday I love it very much from the first time I started driving 40 years ago and I have driven many kids over the years it has been a great career and continues to be. I am very honored to have the privilege I’m driving the most precious cargo on the road today is our children. And I want to thank you’s at Higgins insurance for always putting the children first and foremost. We the school bus drivers say thank you very much well appreciate it. Let’s continue to have a safe school year this upcoming year.”
Final Thoughts
Back to school season is more than just a return to classrooms—it’s a return to shared responsibility on our roads. Whether you’re a parent teaching your child to look both ways, a driver adjusting to busier commutes, or a bus driver ensuring safe passage for hundreds of children, every decision matters.
Together, we can make this school year a safe one.
For more back-to-school safety tips, check out our previous article: Get Prepared for Back to School Safety!
