Every day, we students face potential dangers in school parking lots, where speeding cars and parents entering the wrong lots create chaotic and unsafe conditions. These issues put young drivers at risk and threaten the safety of pedestrians navigating through the lots. Understanding the causes and finding solutions for these problems is crucial to ensuring a safer environment for all people.
After 7th and 8th periods, peers regularly see a long line of parents’ cars in the senior parking area, even though it’s right next to the designated drop-off and pick-up loop, waiting for their kids to come out to take them home. This not only jeopardizes our student bodies’ safety but also unnecessarily increases traffic congestion.
“The design of the entrance and exit isn’t great,” said Principal Rich Engel. “I think if there was a traffic indicator on Elm Street, like a crossing guard, it would increase the flow out of here.”
Appointments, sleeping in, and other factors are why some students arrive late to school. Students who cannot drive yet depend on their parents for transportation. Often, parents use the bus lot to drop off their children, even when buses are still present, just minutes before classes begin.
Parents aren’t the only ones contributing to safety concerns; we students also play a role. Speeding in parking lots and illegal parking endangers everyone. Not being aware of your surroundings can lead to serious incidents.
“Beware of your surroundings. I’ve noticed other students race through the parking lot, and I would hate to have something tragic happen,” states Engel.
Due to the shortage of parking spaces, some students resort to parking in restricted areas, like the yellow zones, just to make it to class on time. As early as 7:00 a.m., students hurry through the dimly lit parking lots, increasing the risk of accidents as they compete for the best
spots.
Students face daily safety hazards in school parking lots due to speeding cars and parents entering incorrect areas, creating chaos and risking pedestrian safety. After school, parents often occupy the senior parking area instead of the designated pick-up zone, worsening congestion. Students also contribute to the problem by speeding and parking illegally, further endangering themselves and others.
Limited parking leads students to park in restricted areas, heightening the risk of accidents, especially during early morning hours. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring a safer school environment. We can prevent these issues by being aware of your surroundings, and obeying the laws.
