- Over 6,000 children hurt on UK roads - AA urges drivers
to slow down this school term.
- From tyre checks to safe loading, The AA shares essential
advice to help avoid breakdowns and keep young road users safe
this September.
- “A safe journey starts before you even turn the key”- AA head
of road safety
More than 6,000 children under 16 were injured while walking
or cycling on UK roads in 2023, according to new data analysed by
The AA. As schools reopen in England and Wales and universities
welcome students back nationwide, The AA is reminding drivers to
stay alert to protect young people heading back to
classrooms and campuses.
Back to School: Safety Around School Zones
Children, especially primary age ones, are more vulnerable to
road incidents due to unpredictable behaviour and limited
awareness of traffic dangers. The AA is reminding motorists to
take extra care around schools, where congestion and distractions
are common.
AA Safety Advice for Drivers:
- Reduce speed in school zones - even if not signposted
- Avoid mobile phone use while driving
- Park away from school gates and avoid zigzag lines
- Watch for children on bikes, scooters, or crossing roads
unexpectedly
- Follow the request to stop by a school crossing patrol
Vehicle Readiness: Avoiding a False Start
Many vehicles may have been left unused or lightly used over the
summer holidays. The AA is reminding drivers that cars that have
been sitting idle over the summer are more likely to encounter
faults when the school run resumes. A few simple checks can help
avoid breakdowns and delays.
The AA recommends:
- Spending ten minutes checking tyres, lights, oil, and coolant
levels
- Ensuring tyres are legal and properly inflated
- Checking battery health and brakes, especially if the car has
been unused
University Challenge: Overloading Risks and Road
Safety
Alongside the school run, The AA is also highlighting the risks
associated with the University Challenge -the annual
migration of students moving into university accommodation.
Overloaded vehicles not only pose safety risks but can also
result in fines of up to £300 and three penalty points.
AA Tips for University Movers:
- Check tyre pressure and condition before
loading – pressures will be higher for large loads than for
normal use
- Keep access to the locking wheel nut, spare wheel or repair
kit as clear as possible
- Secure loose items to prevent them moving around
- Maintain a clear rear view and adjust mirrors accordingly
- Properly secure roof racks and boxes
Tony Rich, AA head of road safety, said: “The
return to school is a busy and exciting time for families, but it
also brings increased risks on the roads. With more children
walking, cycling, and scooting to school, drivers must be
especially cautious in school zones where young pedestrians can
be unpredictable, and visibility may be limited.
“It's not just about slowing down - distractions, poor parking,
stressed parents and vehicle readiness all play a part. A
moment's inattention or a poorly maintained car can have serious
consequences, not just for the driver but for vulnerable road
users. We're urging everyone to take a few extra minutes to
prepare, whether that's checking your tyres or planning a safer
drop-off route.
“Around this time of year, our patrols often become ‘car boot
Jenga' experts - unpacking boxes on the roadside to reach buried
spare wheels. It's a reminder that vehicle preparation is just as
important as careful driving. A safe journey starts before you
even turn the key.”
ENDS
Notes for editors
** Department for
Transport table RAS0202
