Follow the 25 MPH Neighborhood Speed Limit

During the hustle and bustle of the morning commute, drivers should be aware of their speed and surroundings, and adhere to the 25 mph speed limit when driving through residential neighborhoods. Some school zones may even post speed limits as low as 15 mph. Children can quickly dart into the street, and if drivers are going too fast to make a quick stop, it could lead to serious injury or worse. It is also important to come to a complete stop when at a red light or stop sign. Nearly 600 pedestrians were killed and over 10,000 injured in California 2010, with children making up a too large portion of the victims involved.

Always Wear a Helmet When Riding a Bicycle

Riding a bicycle is a fun and ideal form of exercise for children and a great method of transportation for everyone. As with any form of recreation, it is important to practice proper safety techniques when riding a bicycle. Installing lights and reflectors on bicycles and teaching the importance of safe bicycle riding, including the use of a helmet, can significantly reduce incidents.

Driving in Heavy Traffic

Drive slower in heavy traffic, so you can easily stop quickly and within the available stopping distance.

As a general rule, drive slower:

• In shopping centers, parking lots, and downtown areas
• On roads with heavy traffic
• When you see the brake lights of several vehicles ahead of you
• Over narrow bridges and through tunnels
• Through toll plazas
• Near schools, playgrounds, and in residential areas

Adults and children should always be properly restrained when riding in a vehicle. California is currently at a 96.6 percent compliance rate, thanks to campaigns such as Click It or Ticket, however it is still more important than ever to practice proper seat belt safety during high traffic times. It's also important to note that according to California law, children must be secured in the back seat in an appropriate car seat or booster seat if they are under the age of eight.

Share the Road with Motorcycles

As a driver, it is important to watch out for motorcycle riders and follow these tips to ensure their safety as well as yours:

• Perform a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or exiting a lane of traffic, and at intersections
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic
• Don't be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed
• Allow increased following distance – three or four seconds – when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency
• Never tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars
• Never drive while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol