Back-to-School Safe Driving Tips for High School & Teenage Drivers
- Onward Roadside Solutions
- Aug 26
- 3 min read
With school back in session, roads around high schools and neighborhoods become busier with buses, parents dropping kids off, and students driving themselves. If you’re a teen driver—or a parent of one—here are must-know tips to stay safe.
---
📍 Driving in School Zones
1. Slow Down – Always reduce speed in school zones (typically 15–20 mph). Children may dart out unexpectedly.
2. Obey Crossing Guards – Follow their signals immediately—they are there to protect students.
3. No Passing – Never pass another car in a school zone, even if you’re running late.
4. Watch for Buses – Flashing red lights and an extended stop sign arm mean STOP. Traffic must stop in both directions unless separated by a physical median.
5. Be Patient at Drop-Off Lines – Don’t cut in, make illegal turns, or block crosswalks.
---
🚦 Rush Hour & High-Traffic Driving
1. Leave Early – Give yourself 10–15 minutes of extra time. Rushing leads to bad decisions.
2. Keep Distance – Maintain at least 3 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead.
3. Avoid Distractions – No texting, eating, or adjusting music while driving.
4. Check Blind Spots – Use mirrors and look over your shoulder, especially with buses and SUVs blocking views.
5. Be Predictable – Signal early, brake gradually, and avoid sudden lane changes.
---
🛑 Defensive Driving for Teens
Expect the Unexpected – Other drivers may speed, stop suddenly, or make poor decisions. Be ready.
Limit Passengers – Too many friends in the car = distractions. Follow your state’s graduated license rules.
Drive Sober – Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even while overly tired.
---
🚨 What To Do in a Roadside Emergency
Even safe drivers face breakdowns. Here’s what to do if your car fails while driving to school, practice, or work.
🛻 If Your Vehicle Breaks Down
1. Stay Calm – Panic can make things worse. Take a breath.
2. Signal Early – Turn on hazard lights as soon as you notice trouble.
3. Pull Over Safely – Aim for the shoulder, a parking lot, or side street. Avoid curves and blind spots.
4. Stay Visible – Keep hazards on; at night, turn on interior dome light if safe.
5. Stay Inside If Unsafe Outside – If traffic is heavy, stay buckled in the car with hazards on.
---
🔧 Safe Spots to Stop
A wide shoulder or breakdown lane.
A parking lot or side street away from traffic.
Never stop on bridges, in tunnels, or sharp curves if avoidable.
---
📞 Who to Call
Parents/Guardians – Always let them know where you are.
Roadside Assistance – Save Onward Roadside Solutions’ number in your phone now. (513-951-5500)
911 – If you’re in an unsafe location (dark area, heavy traffic, or no safe shoulder).
---
🧰 Other Emergency Tips
Carry Essentials – Keep jumper cables, a small tire inflator, flashlight, and phone charger in your car.
Stay With Your Vehicle – Unless you’re in immediate danger, never walk along a busy roadway.
Know Your Location – Look for mile markers, intersections, or landmarks to give rescuers accurate directions.
✅ Final Word
Safe driving isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about being prepared. Respect school zones, stay alert during rush hour, and know exactly what to do if your vehicle breaks down.
And remember: whether you’re stuck at home, school, practice, or roadside— We Show Up.
📍 Serving Southwest Ohio, Miami Valley, and Northern Kentucky
