It’s back to school for kids and teens! But, what does that mean for you and your insurance? Here are some tips for ensuring that you are prepared and covered for this season.

On the Road

Crowded Roads

With roads getting more crowded as the school commute starts back up, many people will be rushing in the mornings to drop off their kids or make it to work on time. Be sure to give yourself the time for your commute and keep safety in mind when running late. 

Construction

It is still construction season for many areas of the country. Here in Chicagoland, we know it well. Be sure that you take into account additional drive time and stay safe in these zones.

Buses

Be sure to adhere to all local laws when it comes to school buses. If you see a bus stopped with their stop sign out, both sides of traffic must stop as well, letting children to safely pass. If you see that a bus has stopped moving without this sign out, be sure to stop and look before yielding cautiously past. Also, be aware that buses stop and listen before crossing any train tracks.

Carpool

Are you a frequent carpooler? Whether you are driving to work or hustling kids to school and activities, you should check if your liability insurance reflects the risks of these added passengers. 

Do you have a new driver? 

Teenage drivers often can achieve auto insurance discounts for good grades. Whether your teen is driving now or starting soon, keeping this in mind can help you save on your policy, while encouraging your teen to keep their grades up. 

These factors cause increased risks on the roads, so it is a good idea to review your policy and be sure that you have enough coverage.

Safety Tips for Kids

Traveling by bus?

  • Be sure to get to the bus stop a few minutes early. When the bus approaches, step away from the curb and wait for the doors to open before climbing aboard.

  • If you have to cross the street to get to the bus, be sure that to cross ahead and in front of the bus. Be sure the bus driver can see you and that you can see the bus driver. Check to see that no traffic is coming before crossing.

  • Never walk behind the bus

Riding a bike?

  • Always wear a helmet, no matter the length of the ride. 

  • Ride on the right side of the street in the same direction as auto traffic.

  • Respect lights and stop signs.

  • Use hand signals when needing to.

  • Be careful when on school grounds and keep distance from any walking traffic. Walking with the bike at this point is also a good idea.

  • Lock up the bike at a designated area of the school.

Walking to school?

Be realistic about the skills that your child has when walking to school. Are they impulsive? Do they know proper street crossing behavior? Can they rise to this responsibility? 

Make sure that your child knows the route well and direct them to use intersections with crossing guards.

Wearing bright clothing or a bright backpack will help make them visible to drivers.

Please contact Midwest Certified Insurance Agency to review your coverage and answer any questions you have. We are more than happy to help!

Lionel is one of our experts on personal insurance, like home and auto policies. Please reach out to him at personal@midwestga.com or 847-631-6657

Have questions? You can also reach us at 847-640-8000.