Child road accidents linked to mobile phone use
In the past, concerns were raised about driving while using a mobile phone and it has subsequently been outlawed. New research has shown that many mobile-related road accidents involving children are now more likely to be the latter’s fault – a result of them not having their full attention on the road. At what age should a child be given a mobile phone, and do they need to take it to school?
First mobile phone
Amazingly, some parents have admitted to giving their child their first mobile phone at the age of 8 - and some even younger. At the age of 8 your child will still be in primary school, and most likely will still be getting walked to and from school – so it’s highly unlikely they’ll need any such thing as a phone. Children do like to feel grown up and a mobile phone can signify the first step into adulthood for them, but at such a young age, they’re probably going to use it just to play games - and they don’t need a phone to do that. Research by Intersperience found that 11 is thought to be the most appropriate age to give a child their first mobile phone.
The rise in social media and technology
The rise in social media and the advanced technology of today’s smartphones has meant that people spend more time than ever on their phones, for good or ill. Young people communicate heavily via social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter and text or instant message rather than call. All these things are potentially huge and dangerous distractions for a child walking to school on their own.
No phone zone
Most schools do not allow children to have their phones on at school, and some even say that you shouldn’t bring one to school at all. It can be difficult as a parent to balance the reassurance of knowing you can call your child to find out where they are if they have a phone, against the risks of them not paying attention to busy roads due to being distracted.
What can you do?
As a parent speak to your child and explain your concerns. Consider whether they really need to be taking their phone to school with them, especially when they are met from school or if the school does not permit phones.
Who do you call if your child has a road accident?
If there’s an accident, you will need to make an accident claim on your child’s behalf with a personal injury solicitor. Many of them offer their advice and services on a no win no free basis so if you believe that your child was involved in a road accident and it wasn’t their fault, then you may have a case.
As a parent, you need to take control and think about what is best for you and your child. If you feel that you would be happier knowing they have a mobile phone, why not ask them to turn it off while walking to and from school as opposed to taking it off them altogether?