This Tuesday, May 1, is the sixth annual Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 Day. Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 is a nonprofit with a simple message: prevent child deaths by driving a responsible speed around neighborhood areas. Car accidents are the number one cause of death for children between the ages of 3 and 14. In Florida alone, 78 children under the age of 14 died in traffic accidents in 2008, the third highest figure in the country.
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind that could save a child’s life:
- Buckle up. Not just your kids, but yourself, too. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that 66 percent of kids whose parents ignore seatbelts will follow their parents’ example. This is especially troublesome since children are more likely to be seriously injured in car accidents than adults are. Save a life by setting a positive example.
- Make the rules clear. Tell your kids that they are not to step into the road unless you are with them. No crossing the street, no playing in the street, no excuses, no exceptions.
- Know your state’s seatbelt laws. Florida seatbelt law requires a child restraint for children three and under. An adult safety belt is permissible for children ages 4 – 5. The maximum fine for a first offense is $60, along with points on the license.
A little extra patience and precaution can save lives this summer. Do your part to keep kids alive.
The Gerber Law Group, P.A. – Sarasota accident attorney
Visit http://www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org for information on starting a Keep Kids Alive campaign in your community.