Home-school journey: for 41% of parents it is risky, study (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• 41% of parents consider the home-school journey dangerous for their children.
• 85% of children cross roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or higher.
• The busy main roads and the absence of sidewalks are particularly critical.

Key facts

• What: Study on the insecurity of the home-school journey.

• Where: Switzerland.
• Who: ATA and FSS.
• Amount: 41% of parents.

According to a representative survey commissioned by the Traffic and Environment Association (ATA) and the Road Safety Fund (FSS), four out of ten parents consider the home-school journey dangerous for their children. The survey, conducted by YouGov on 800 parents, reveals that 85% of children must cross at least one road with a speed limit of 50 km/h or higher. Routes along or through these roads are considered seven times more dangerous than those in moderate traffic areas.

Main roads and sidewalks

"Particularly critical are the main roads that are very busy and with high speeds, as well as the absence of sidewalks or the presence of too narrow sidewalks," said Caterina Bassoli, coordinator for school mobility campaigns in Ticino, quoted in a statement today. The perception of safety is also rated worse in French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino than in German-speaking Switzerland.

Practical implications

This feeling

Operational details

Practical Analysis

The perceived insecurity of parents has significant implications for the mobility and health of children. Adult accompaniment and the use of the car increase traffic and risks near schools. This phenomenon not only creates congestion but can also increase the risk of accidents.

Proposed Solutions

Parents ask municipalities to improve road infrastructure, creating safe pedestrian paths and protected crossings. ATA, on the other hand, promotes Pedibus as an effective solution to reduce traffic and increase safety. This system not only reduces the number of cars near schools but also gives children the opportunity to walk, improving their health and traffic skills.

Benefits of Pedibus

Pedibus is an initiative that involves volunteer adults who accompany children to school on foot. This not only reduces traffic but also promotes an active and healthy lifestyle for children. Additionally, walking to school can improve attention and traffic skills, preparing children to become responsible citizens.

Comparison with other regions

The perception of safety is rated worse in Romandy and Ticino compared to German-speaking Switzerland. This suggests that there may be a disparity in road infrastructure and safety measures between the different regions of the country. Improving these infrastructures could not only increase safety but also promote more sustainable mobility.

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Key points

Concrete action

To improve the safety of the home-school journey, it is essential that municipalities take concrete measures. This includes creating safe pedestrian paths, installing protected crossings, and reducing speed limits in school zones.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Identify critical areas : Municipalities must identify the roads and intersections that pose the greatest risk to children. 2. Consulting parents: It is important to involve parents and the school community in the decision-making process. 3. Implement safety measures: This may include creating pedestrian paths, installing protected crossings, and reducing speed limits. 4. Promote the Pedibus: Municipalities can collaborate with the ATA to expand the Pedibus offer and involve more volunteers.

Useful tools

For more information and useful tools, you can consult the calcolatore di sicurezza stradale and the safe route comparator. These tools can help parents and municipalities assess risks and make informed decisions.

Conclusion

Improving the safety of the home-school journey is essential to ensure the well-being of children and promote sustainable mobility. By taking concrete action and community engagement, a safer and healthier environment for all can be created.

Source: swissinfo.ch