More than half concerned over safety of school run

Alarming statistics show that 35% of parents have witnessed a ‘near-miss’ outside the school gates, following a survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of Bridgestone and road safety charity Brake.

The survey reveals that 55% of parents are concerned for their children’s safety when travelling to school, and even more shocking is the finding that 67% say they have witnessed 4-11-year-olds crossing the road without holding the hand of an adult. 17% also admit to parking illegally when on the school run.

It comes as no surprise therefore that 26% of parents said they were more likely to drive their children to school in the autumn and winter seasons, while 86% are more likely to drive when the weather is poor.

Bridgestone and Brake are asking drivers to take care when driving near schools, slowing right down to 20mph or lower to give kids a chance and reduce the near misses.

Bridgestone’s managing director John McNaught said: “With the days becoming shorter and weather conditions expected to become more challenging for drivers, now is ideal time to launch an awareness campaign.

“We commissioned research from YouGov, questioning 1,000 primary school parents, in an attempt to reinforce our safety messages.

“The findings certainly backed up our initial fears about road safety on the school run and we are glad to be partnering with Brake to raise awareness.”

Sarah-Jane Martin, spokesperson from Brake, said: “These are shocking figures, showing just how risky the journey to school can be for kids and parents. We’re asking all drivers to slow down and take care, especially around homes, schools and shops. We need to make sure our kids and people of all ages – not just the lucky few – can walk and cycle without being endangered.”

“With Road Safety Week coming up next month, we’re asking everyone to look out for each other, especially pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging mutual respect for everyone on the road.”

Bridgestone also asked parents if they personally checked the tyre tread depth on their cars, with only 43 per cent admitting that they do, suggesting that roads would become safer if motorists were more hands-on with their own tyre maintenance.