Whenever there are children near the roadside, what is the first thing you should do?

Slowing down is essential when there are children near the roadside because children can be unpredictable. They may suddenly run into the street, dart after a ball, or not be aware of traffic. By reducing your speed, you enhance your ability to react quickly to any unexpected movement. Slowing down not only gives you more time to assess the situation, but it also decreases the severity of an accident should one occur.

While allowing space between your vehicle and the curb is a good practice, it does not specifically address the immediate need to adapt your speed in the presence of children, who may behave unpredictably. Looking both directions is particularly important when crossing an intersection or entering a street, but it doesn’t replace the critical step of reducing speed when children are nearby. Slamming on your brakes is an extreme reaction and can lead to unsafe driving conditions, such as the risk of being rear-ended by another vehicle. Thus, the most prudent first action to take is to slow down, ensuring greater safety for everyone, especially children.