Safe2Drive Blog

Picture this: you’re sitting at a railroad crossing, waiting behind a school bus. The bus stops, the driver opens the door, and everyone sits in silence for a few seconds before it rolls forward again. Annoying, right? Well, that pause isn’t just happening to annoy you. It’s the law, and it’s a key piece of safety at train tracks.

Each year, large vehicles like buses and semi-trucks face unique challenges when crossing railroad tracks. During Train Tracks Safety Week, running September 15–21, the focus is on reminding all drivers to respect the risks at rail crossings and to understand what makes things especially tricky for the professionals behind the wheel of bigger vehicles.

Buses and trucks are required by law to stop at railroad crossings. School buses, many other buses, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials must come to a complete stop, open the door or window to listen, and look both ways before moving forward. That’s why you’ll sometimes see traffic pause behind a bus even if no train is visible.

Truck drivers also deal with a different set of physics. A fully loaded semi can weigh 80,000 pounds or more, and if it gets stuck on the tracks, it doesn’t move easily. Low ground clearance can also cause trailers to bottom out. That’s why those “low ground clearance” warning signs near tracks matter.

So, what do bus and truck drivers want you to know?

• Be patient when they stop. That pause at the tracks is about keeping kids, passengers, and communities safe.
• Never try to go around a vehicle that’s stopped at the railroad tracks. Passing a bus or truck at a railroad crossing is both illegal and super dangerous.
• Give them space. Trucks need extra time to clear the tracks, and buses need room to maneuver safely.

According to the Federal Railroad Administration, about every three hours in the United States, a train and a vehicle or person collide. While most collisions involve smaller passenger cars, the risks increase when a larger vehicle is involved because of the number of people or the size of the load.

This Train Tracks Safety Week, take a second look at those familiar crossing signs and signals. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a car, truck, or bus, the rules are similar: slow down, pay attention, and never try to beat the train.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

Picture this: you’re sitting at a railroad crossing, waiting behind a school bus. The bus stops, the driver opens the door, and everyone sits in silence for a few seconds before it rolls forward again. Annoying, right? Well, that pause isn’t just happening to annoy you. It’s the law, and it’s a key piece of safety at train tracks.

September is National Preparedness Month, a time to think about how ready we are for emergencies on the road. Natural disasters and extreme weather can happen anytime, and knowing how to respond behind the wheel can make a big difference. Whether it’s heavy rain that floods roads, wildfire smoke that limits visibility, or a sudden power outage that knocks out traffic signals, being prepared keeps you and others safer.

Flooded Roads

Flooding is one of the most common hazards drivers face. According to the National Weather Service, just 12 inches of moving water can sweep away most cars, and 2 feet can carry away trucks and SUVs. If you see water across the road, the safest choice is to turn around, and don’t try to drive through it. Even shallow water can stall your engine or hide dangerous washouts in the pavement.

Wildfire Smoke

Wildfires are another concern in many places, and smoke can travel hundreds of miles. Driving through smoky conditions reduces visibility and can irritate your eyes and lungs. If you must drive when air quality is poor, close your windows and set your ventilation to recirculate. Slow down, use your headlights, and leave extra space between you and the vehicle ahead. If visibility drops to zero, pull over safely and wait for conditions to improve.

Power Outages

When storms or heat waves knock out power, traffic signals may go dark. In these situations, treat intersections as a four-way stop. Come to a complete stop, yield the right-of-way, and proceed cautiously. Stay especially alert for pedestrians and cyclists who may not be as visible when streetlights are out.

Be Prepared Before You Drive

Emergencies are unpredictable, but your preparation doesn’t have to be. Keep an emergency kit in your car with water, snacks, a flashlight, phone charger, and first aid supplies. Make sure your gas tank (or EV battery) is at least half full before long trips, in case you get delayed or need to reroute.

National Preparedness Month is a reminder that safe driving isn’t just about everyday traffic rules; it’s about being ready when the unexpected happens. Stay alert, plan ahead, and remember: sometimes the safest choice is to wait it out.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

September is National Preparedness Month, a time to think about how ready we are for emergencies on the road. Natural disasters and extreme weather can happen anytime, and knowing how to respond behind the wheel can make a big difference. Whether it’s heavy rain that floods roads, wildfire smoke that limits visibility, or a sudden power outage that knocks out traffic signals, being prepared keeps you and others safer.

It happens every year. Summer winds down, the school buses roll out, and suddenly your quiet morning commute is filled with backpacks, bikes, and blinking crosswalk signs. Back-to-school season brings a big change to traffic patterns, but after a few months without it, many drivers forget some important rules of the road.

Here are five common mistakes drivers make every August and how to avoid them.

1. Forgetting to Stop for School Buses

When a school bus extends its stop arm and flashes its red lights, traffic in both directions must stop unless there is a raised median or barrier in between. This pause gives kids time to safely cross the street, and it is not the time to try to sneak by or guess when it is okay to go. If the red lights are flashing, stay put until the bus starts moving again. Even before the stop arm comes out, start slowing down as the bus pulls over since kids might already be getting ready to cross.

2. Speeding Through School Zones

We are all in a hurry, but school zones are no place to rush. Lower speed limits are there for a reason. Children can be unpredictable, and their smaller size makes them harder to see. Pay close attention to posted signs, especially near elementary and middle schools. Many zones have flashing lights to signal reduced speeds during arrival and dismissal times. Try setting a reminder until you make it a habit to slow down near schools during those key hours.

3. Rolling Through Crosswalks

Crosswalks near schools are busy and full of movement. Drivers sometimes roll through these areas or block them while waiting to turn. Even if a pedestrian is not directly in front of your car, give them plenty of space and time to cross safely. Always stop behind the crosswalk, not in it, and never try to pass a car that is stopped at a crosswalk. They may be waiting for someone you cannot see.

4. Ignoring Crossing Guards

Crossing guards are there to help manage busy intersections and keep kids safe. When they signal for you to stop, you are required to do so. When they wave you through, proceed slowly and stay alert. It is always a good idea to make eye contact with the crossing guard to confirm you are following their instructions.

5. Getting Distracted in the Drop-Off Line

School drop-off and pick-up zones can be hectic. Between morning routines, texts, backpacks, and coffee cups, it is easy to lose focus. But these areas are filled with pedestrians, and staying alert is essential. Keep your phone out of sight, move slowly, and follow your school’s drop-off procedures. If possible, practice the drop-off routine with your child so they know when and where to exit the car quickly and safely. This helps keep the line moving and reduces confusion.

The start of a new school year is exciting, but it is also a time to be extra cautious on the road. By remembering these five simple tips, you can help protect students, ease traffic congestion, and set a good example for new drivers.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

It happens every year. Summer winds down, the school buses roll out, and suddenly your quiet morning commute is filled with backpacks, bikes, and blinking crosswalk signs. Back-to-school season brings a big change to traffic patterns, but after a few months without it, many drivers forget some important rules of the road.

August is National Traffic Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to brush up on your safe driving habits. Between back-to-school traffic, unpredictable weather, and end-of-summer road trips, there’s a lot happening on the roads this time of year. The good news is that a few simple reminders can help you stay safer behind the wheel.

Here are four easy ways to stay focused, alert, and responsible on the road this month and all year long.

1. Buckle Up

Let’s start with the basics: seat belts save lives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belts reduce the risk of death by 45 percent for drivers and front-seat passengers. That’s a pretty big deal.

Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up before you start driving, including back-seat passengers. It only takes a few seconds, and it’s one of the easiest ways to protect yourself in a collision.

2. Put the Phone Away

We get it. Phones are part of daily life. But texting, scrolling, or even glancing at your screen while driving is a major distraction. Taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

The safest move is to silence notifications and put your phone out of reach. If you need navigation, use a hands-free setup. Just keep your focus where it belongs: on the road.

3. Never Drive Impaired

Whether it’s alcohol, cannabis, or certain medications, driving under the influence affects your judgment and slows your reaction time. If you’re impaired, even just a little, it’s not worth the risk.

Make a plan before you go out. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare app, or call a friend. There are always better options than getting behind the wheel when you’re not fully alert.

4. Watch for Kids and School Zones

August means back-to-school season, which comes with extra responsibility for drivers. Be on the lookout for school buses, pedestrians, and students biking or walking to school, especially during the morning and afternoon rush.

Slow down in school zones, stop for buses with extended stop arms, and follow crossing guards’ instructions. It only takes a moment of distraction to put a child’s life at risk.

Traffic safety isn’t just about following rules. It’s about protecting lives. Whether you’re driving across the country or just around the corner, small choices can make a big difference. Take a moment this month to check in with your driving habits. Your passengers, fellow drivers, and loved ones will thank you for it.

Interested in learning more about traffic safety?

Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?

Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.

August is National Traffic Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to brush up on your safe driving habits. Between back-to-school traffic, unpredictable weather, and end-of-summer road trips, there’s a lot happening on the roads this time of year. The good news is that a few simple reminders can help you stay safer behind the wheel.