The dangers faced by school crossing guards have become a pressing issue, highlighting the need for urgent action and a reevaluation of safety measures. The recent tragic death of Bruce Morlack, a beloved crossing guard in Burlington City, New Jersey, serves as a stark reminder of the risks these individuals take every day. Morlack's story, and those of many others like him, sheds light on a growing problem that demands our attention and a comprehensive solution.
The Rising Toll
From 1993 to the present, New Jersey has lost 19 crossing guards to motor vehicle accidents, with over 390 others injured during this period. These numbers are not isolated incidents; they represent a nationwide trend. Data shows that at least 230 crossing guards across 37 states and Washington, D.C., have been struck by vehicles over the last decade, with nearly three dozen fatalities. This is not just a local issue but a national crisis that requires a unified response.
A Systemic Failure
The lack of systematic tracking of crossing guard injuries and fatalities is a glaring oversight. While New Jersey and Massachusetts have made efforts to address this, the majority of states have not. This absence of data collection hinders our ability to fully grasp the extent of the problem and develop effective solutions. It also underscores a broader failure to prioritize the safety of those who protect our children.
Dangerous Roads, Indifferent Drivers
The stories of crossing guards like Morlack and Bork paint a picture of increasingly hazardous road conditions and a disturbing lack of respect for their authority. Guards report dealing with heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and larger vehicles that create blind spots. They face verbal abuse and a general disregard for their presence and instructions. This behavior is not only unacceptable but also life-threatening.
A Call for Action
The time has come to implement proven safety measures. Automated speed enforcement in school zones, safer street design, lower vehicle speeds, and stronger enforcement are all essential steps. We must also invest in better training and equipment for crossing guards and ensure that they are given the respect and protection they deserve. The current situation is a systemic failure, and it's time for a systemic solution.
A Personal Perspective
As an advocate for traffic safety, I believe we need to shift our mindset. We cannot continue to call these incidents "accidents." They are preventable tragedies caused by human error and a lack of accountability. We must hold drivers responsible for their actions and create an environment where crossing guards and pedestrians are valued and protected. The loss of Bruce Morlack and others like him should serve as a wake-up call, prompting us to take immediate and meaningful action.
Conclusion
The dangers faced by school crossing guards are a reflection of a larger issue: our society's tolerance for traffic violence. It's time to break this cycle and prioritize the safety of those who protect our children. We owe it to Bruce Morlack, Jean Schultz, and the many others who have lost their lives to make our roads safer and hold those who cause harm accountable. Their stories should inspire us to create a future where crossing guards can do their jobs without fear and where every child can walk to school safely.
