As Long Island families swap beach bags for backpacks, the energy around Plainview’s schools is electric. While kids compare class schedules and teachers fine-tune bulletin boards, our neighborhood streets suddenly feel busier. August is National Traffic Awareness Month, making this the perfect moment for a refresher on keeping everyone safe throughout Nassau County’s back-to-school rush.

1. Extra Eyes for Kids on the Move

Morning and afternoon, Plainview Road, Old Country Road, and the smaller lanes that feed them turn into walking-school-bus routes. Slow to the posted limits (or below in rain or fog), scan parked-car gaps for darting children, and anticipate that a late-for-the-bell kid might forget to look both ways.

2. Know New York’s School-Bus Rules

When a bus extends its stop arm—from either direction, on any roadway without a physical median—you must stop. Fines start at $250, but the real cost is a child’s safety. Maintain at least 20 feet of distance so students can cross in front of the bus with a clear sightline.

3. Conquer the Drop-Off Line

Plainview-Old Bethpage campuses can feel like JFK at 8 a.m. Arrive a few minutes early, stay off your phone, and pull all the way forward before unloading to keep the line moving smoothly. Patience prevents fender-benders and frayed nerves.

4. Give Student Drivers Breathing Room

Juniors and seniors on their first solo commutes may brake late or take wide turns. Treat “Student Driver” bumper stickers—and any car with a youthful pilot—as an alert to leave extra space and avoid sudden lane changes.

5. Coach Your Kids on Safe Habits

Before the first bell:

• Walkers: cross only at marked crosswalks and obey crossing guards.

• Cyclists: always helmeted, ride with traffic, signal turns.

• Passengers: buckle up every ride, no matter how short.

A two-minute talk at breakfast can prevent a lifetime of regret.

Safety Is a Community Contract

At David R. Lewis, P.C., we’ve represented Plainview and greater Long Island families for more than 25 years. We’ve seen how one careless moment can change a life forever—and how attentive drivers can stop tragedy before it starts. Let’s use this new-school-year energy to recommit to safe streets.

If you or a loved one is injured in a traffic incident, our Plainview office is here to help you navigate medical bills, insurance claims, and the legal road ahead. Call (516) 933-7550 or visit https://www.lipilawyer.com/ for a free consultation.

Stay alert, drive kindly, and have a fantastic school year!