- School starts require more attention from drivers
In Thuringia, statistically, a child is involved in a road traffic accident every 17 hours. Against this backdrop, TÜV Thuringia is raising awareness of the particular challenges faced by drivers at the start of the school year this Thursday. According to Achmed Leser from TÜV Thuringia, accidents involving children near schools or public transport stops tend to increase at this time.
Attention to school buses and 'parent taxis'
Drivers need to exercise particular caution, with a high level of attention given to school buses. Buses in regular service, as well as marked school buses approaching a stop with their hazard lights on, should not be overtaken. When a bus stops at a halt with its hazard lights on, it can only be passed at walking speed. However, 'parent taxis' also regularly cause dangerous situations directly at schools, according to traffic experts.
In the first five months of this year, there were 2,100 traffic accidents with personal injury in Thuringia, an increase of 9.7% compared to the same period last year. The number of fatalities fell by about a third to 28.
Additionally, drivers should be mindful of 'parent taxis' dropping off and picking up children around schools. These private vehicles can often lead to congestion and chaotic traffic conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.
Furthermore, the school year also brings an influx of children walking or biking to school, making it crucial for drivers to maintain a cautious and attentive driving style within school zones.
