The back-to-school season means more than just packed lunches and new backpacks. It also means busier roads, school zones in full swing, and more young drivers behind the wheel. Whether you’re a parent, a commuter, or both, now’s the time to brush up on safety and review your auto insurance coverage.

Here’s what to keep in mind as traffic ramps up this fall.

 

Slow Down in School Zones

Once school is back in session, speed limits drop and fines rise in school zones. Not only is it the law, but it’s a major safety factor for children walking or biking to school.

✅ Best practices:

  • Always obey posted school zone speed limits (often 15–25 mph)
  • Watch for crossing guards and children at intersections
  • Never pass a school bus with flashing red lights—regardless of your direction of travel in most states 

Insurance Tip: Tickets or violations in school zones can raise your insurance rates. Driving cautiously protects both lives and your premium.

 

Teen Drivers on the Road

For many families, back-to-school means a new teen driver commuting to school, sports, or after-school activities.

✅ Coverage reminders:

  • Make sure your teen is listed on your auto insurance policy
  • Consider increasing liability limits—teen drivers have higher accident rates
  • Explore good student discounts or safe driving programs from your insurer 

Pro Tip: Talk with your teen about avoiding distractions—especially texting or using GPS while driving. Many insurance companies offer monitoring apps that can encourage safer habits.

 

Carpooling & Liability

Carpooling is a convenient way to cut costs and traffic, but it can raise liability questions if an accident happens, especially if you’re driving many passengers.

✅ What to know:

  • If you cause an accident while driving a carpool, your auto liability insurance will likely cover passengers up to your policy limits.
  • If you regularly drive large groups or for an organized program, you may need additional coverage.
  • Your passengers’ own policies (if they have one) can also help cover injuries. 

Insurance Tip: Check your medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage—it can help cover passengers’ medical bills regardless of fault.

 

Increased Traffic Risks

The start of the school year means:

  • More cars on the road during morning and afternoon rush
  • More pedestrians, cyclists, and buses to navigate around
  • Frequent stop-and-go traffic near schools and neighborhoods 

✅ Stay alert by:

  • Avoiding aggressive driving and giving yourself extra time
  • Keeping a safe following distance
  • Expecting sudden stops or kids darting into the street 

Pro Tip: Consider uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect yourself if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance.

 

Drive Smart, Stay Covered

The back-to-school season brings more crowded roads and school traffic, but with safe driving habits and the right insurance coverage, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and your wallet.

📞 Need to review your auto policy before school traffic picks up? Contact us today to make sure you’re covered from bumper to bumper.