Across the United States, school crossing guards perform a vital role in safeguarding children during their daily commutes to and from school. While those in the profession often find their work fulfilling, an investigation by the Associated Press and Cox Media Group reveals that it can also be perilous. Key findings indicate that there is no consistent tracking of injuries or fatalities among crossing guards. In a decade, at least 230 guards were hit by vehicles, resulting in nearly 30 deaths, suggesting the documented figures may only represent a fraction of the actual incidents. Significantly, drivers who strike crossing guards often evade serious repercussions; out of 183 determined cases, nearly half received traffic citations, while a quarter were left without any tickets. Federal data positions crossing guard roles among the most dangerous jobs, paralleling industries like construction and air transportation. Currently, only New Jersey and Massachusetts have initiated serious efforts to monitor the safety of crossing guards, implementing measures like mandatory reporting of injuries. Contributing factors to the high incidence of accidents include the prevalence of distracted drivers, the design of modern vehicles, and insufficient safety measures in school zones. Alarmingly, more than half of the guard workforce is over the age of 65, increasing their vulnerability on the job. This investigation sheds light not just on individual risks, but also on the pressing need for improved safety protocols in our communities.
The Hidden Dangers of Being a School Crossing Guard
The Hidden Dangers of Being a School Crossing Guard
A deep dive into the alarming risks faced by school crossing guards throughout the U.S., highlighting increased safety measures but persistent dangers.
An investigation reveals the hazardous conditions facing school crossing guards across the nation. Over the past decade, about 230 crossing guards were struck by vehicles, resulting in nearly three dozen fatalities. Despite these dangers, the lack of systematic tracking and accountability for drivers who injure or kill crossing guards raises concerns about safety protocols and enforcement. Only two states, New Jersey and Massachusetts, have made significant efforts to track crossing guard safety, with broader issues such as distracted driving and insufficient traffic measures contributing to the problem. Many of the guards are senior citizens, making them more vulnerable on the job.
