Children should walk as much as possible for health reasons. But at the same time, they need to learn how to be safe around cars – including driveways, car parks and when crossing roads.

Pedestrian accidents

A recent survey found that 20% of children in traffic-related accidents were pedestrians. Children aged under 10 are particularly vulnerable because they’re still growing and developing.

For example, children have under developed peripheral vision until age 9 and they’re less able compared to adults to judge where the sounds of motor vehicles are coming from. In addition, children’s behaviour isn’t consistent around roads. For rolex replica instance, they can be impulsive or easily distracted. Their relatively small size also makes it harder for them to see around parked cars.

What to do

  1. Be a positive role model for your child – and explain safety around cars as you go about your day-to-day life, including:
    • road rules
    • where it’s safest to cross a road
    • the dangers of unexpected vehicle movement
  2. Children up to 8 should hold an adult’s hand around cars (footpath, car park, crossing roads)
  3. Children up to 10 should be supervised around traffic – and hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road
  4. From 10 to 13 years of age children can cope more safely in traffic on their own; although, the busier the roads, the older they need to be. Before allowing independent walking, check that your child always stops, looks, listens and thinks when crossing roads.

More information: Speak to your GP, Visit www.raisingchildren.net.au

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