In today’s fast-paced digital age, smartphones have become a significant concern for road safety, particularly among children. Research indicates that an alarming percentage of children are becoming increasingly attached to their phones, with ownership rates reaching 55 percent by ages 8 to 11 and skyrocketing to 97 percent by age 12. This poses a serious risk when they lack proper education on road safety and become distracted while crossing roads.
Recent statistics have shed light on a concerning trend – a quarter of children are distracted by their phones when navigating road crossings. Such figures are deeply unsettling, especially considering that road traffic accidents continue to be a leading cause of death among young people in the UK.
Recognizing the urgency of this issue, First News, a newspaper for young people, has launched the Look Up! campaign to raise awareness. By compiling data from various studies and sharing real-life accounts, First News presents a compelling case for schools to play a more active role in promoting children’s road safety.
The campaign encourages schools and colleges to conduct assemblies that remind children about the dangers of distraction while on the road. To assist educators, First News has created a free Look Up! assembly pack designed to facilitate the teaching process.
To promote safer road behavior in children, Bolt Burdon Kemp has released four key tips:
- Encourage children to remain alert and refrain from using their devices while at road crossings.
- If phone use is necessary, advise them to find a safe area away from the road before engaging with their phones.
- Discourage the use of noise-cancelling headphones when walking along roads.
- Ensure that children wear bright and colorful clothing to enhance visibility for other road users.
While car drivers bear legal responsibility for exercising reasonable care and understanding pedestrian behavior, pedestrians, including children, are also expected to take reasonable precautions for their own safety. Road safety largely relies on common sense, such as stopping, looking, and listening before crossing, as well as utilizing available footpaths whenever possible.
However, even with careful precautions, accidents can still occur. In such cases, victims of car accidents, including children, may be eligible for compensation through personal injury claims with specialized solicitors.
Educating children about the perils of phone distraction at road crossings is crucial to ensuring their safety. Schools and parents must be proactive in warning them about the risks associated with smartphone use in such situations. By working together and raising awareness, we can pave the way for a safer road environment for our children.
