Families across the region are shifting into back-to-school mode. Along with new backpacks, earlier bedtimes, and packed lunchboxes comes something else: a serious spike in local traffic. And with that, increased odds for car wrecks.
Between school buses, hurried drop-offs, and teenage drivers still learning the ropes, it’s no surprise that August and September see a rise in minor accidents—many of them involving dented fenders, scratched panels, and rear-end collisions.
At Hammer’s Autoworks, we’re all about repairing your vehicle after a collision, but we’re even bigger fans of helping you avoid one. Here are five smart driving reminders to keep you safe—and out of the body shop—as the school year begins.
The Start of School Is a Common Time for a Car Wreck
You may not think of back-to-school season as high-risk driving season, but it often is. The start of the school year brings:
- Increased traffic in neighborhoods and near school zones
- Distracted drivers unfamiliar with the new routine
- More pedestrians, cyclists, and crossing guards
- Inexperienced teen drivers hitting the road again
These elements create the perfect storm for low-speed collisions, side-swipes, parking lot dings, and rear-end bumps—especially during drop-off and pick-up times.
Even a “minor” car wreck can lead to more damage than you think. Behind a scratched bumper or slightly dented panel, there could be misaligned sensors, cracked mounts, or frame stress. That’s why even small accidents should be taken seriously—and why choosing an OEM-certified body shop like Hammer’s matters.
With that in mind, let’s talk about how to stay safe on the road this fall.
1. Respect School Zones—Every Time
School zones are clearly marked for a reason. During school hours, reduced speed limits and crossing guards aren’t just a suggestion—they’re critical safety features designed to protect children who may not always be paying attention.
Unfortunately, many drivers either don’t notice the signage or ignore it altogether. That can lead to tragic consequences or, at best, a costly ticket and a bump in your insurance. Even if you’re running late, slow down and stay alert.
Pro tip: If you see crossing guards, flashing yellow lights, or groups of kids on foot—drop your speed and scan your surroundings carefully. Many school zone accidents happen because a child darts into the road from between parked vehicles.
2. Give School Buses (and the Kids Around Them) Plenty of Room
When a school bus extends its stop arm and activates its red lights, you are legally required to stop. This rule applies in both directions on two-lane roads, and on multi-lane roads unless there’s a physical barrier dividing traffic.
Failing to stop can result in:
- Steep fines
- Points on your license
- Insurance hikes
- Most importantly: a child getting hurt
Also be mindful when following a bus. They make frequent stops, and tailgating or trying to “beat the lights” can lead to low-speed collisions or misjudged braking distances. At Hammer’s, we see these kinds of bumper-to-bumper crashes often during the school year.
3. Plan for Heavier Traffic and Frustrating Delays
Back-to-school season means busier roads in the morning and late afternoon, especially around residential neighborhoods and main school routes.
It’s easy to get frustrated when the light turns green and no one moves because a car is waiting to turn into a school parking lot, but rushed driving leads to accidents. Most fender benders we repair this time of year happen because someone:
- Followed too closely
- Switched lanes aggressively
- Tried to beat a yellow light
Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going, and don’t let frustration over traffic become the reason you need a new bumper.
4. Teen Drivers Are Back—And They’re Still Learning
August brings more inexperienced drivers back on the roads, especially high school students driving themselves to school for the first time.
While these teens are typically licensed and tested, that doesn’t mean they’re prepared for every situation—especially in high-pressure areas like school zones or four-way stops. They’re also more likely to get distracted by texts, friends in the car, or a confusing intersection.
So what can you do?
- Keep a safe distance
- Use turn signals early
- Expect hesitation or slow turns
- Never assume they see you
At Hammer’s, we know that many “minor” teen driving mistakes result in damage that’s more than cosmetic—especially if sensors, bumpers, or camera systems are affected.
5. Parking Lots Are Prime Grounds for Dings and Dents
Few places are more chaotic than a school parking lot during pickup or drop-off. Cars are pulling in and out, parents are opening back hatches, and students are zigzagging through traffic to meet rides.
This is where slow, defensive driving is your best friend.
- Avoid tight parking spots
- Use mirrors and backup cameras—but don’t rely on them blindly
- Watch for car doors opening into your path
- Don’t rush—scrapes and side-swipes are all too common
Even low-speed bumps in parking lots can cause more than paint damage. If your bumper gets hit—even lightly—it may compromise how it performs in a future accident.
What If You Do Get Hit?
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, an accident still happens. A distracted parent backs into your fender. A teen taps your rear bumper at a red light. A school signpost you didn’t see leaves a nasty dent in your door.
Here’s the good news: If your vehicle is damaged, Hammer’s Autoworks is here to make it right. We’re OEM-certified for all major vehicle manufacturers, which means we follow strict repair guidelines and use parts built specifically for your make and model. No aftermarket shortcuts, no cut corners—just high-quality, insurance-backed repairs that restore your vehicle’s safety and integrity.
We’ll even work directly with your insurance company to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Safe Driving Now Means Fewer Repairs Later
As the school year kicks off, take a little extra care behind the wheel. Not just for your own vehicle—but for the safety of the kids, families, and new drivers around you. And if an accident does happen, know that Hammer’s Autoworks is here to help you get back on the road—safely and confidently.