Credit: Automobile Club of Luxembourg (ACL)

As schools begin to return for the new term, the Automobile Club of Luxembourg (ACL) has published its back-to-school safety advice for all road users, noting the heightened risks around schools as thousands of pupils return to class.

From Tuesday 15 September 2026, more than 120,000 pupils, including 64,255 in primary education, will return to schools. That means the areas around schools will be much busier again, and the ACL’s message to all road users is simple: take extra care and look out for one another!

The new school year starts in stages. Primary schools reopen on Tuesday 15 September, followed by pupils starting their first year of secondary school (7e) on Wednesday 16 September and all other secondary school pupils on Thursday 17 September.

The ACL noted that, as every year, the start of the school year comes with increased vigilance on the roads. With thousands of pupils returning to school, caution is more necessary than ever near school premises.

For parents:

• Walk the route to school with your child, pointing out potential dangers.

• Choose the safest route, even if it is longer.

• Set an example: children imitate adult behaviour.

• Strictly respect the Highway Code, even on short trips.

• Ensure your child always exits the car on the pavement side.

• Do not wait on the opposite side of the road after school.

• Make sure your child is visible: light clothing, reflective vests, armbands.

• If using a bicycle or trailer, ensure visibility and wear a helmet.

For children:

• Walk on the side of the pavement nearest the houses.

• Cross only at pedestrian crossings and green lights, after looking both ways.

• Watch out for cars coming out of garages or hidden by parked vehicles.

For motorists:

• Exercise extra caution near schools and bus stops.

• Adapt your speed and be ready to brake at any moment.

• Remember that children do not always perceive road dangers.

• Keep a safe distance from cyclists and allow them enough space.

The ACL further highlighted that the Grand Ducal Police will be particularly present near schools at the start of the academic year. Their role is to support teachers and parents, while also carrying out targeted checks. Offences such as speeding, not wearing seatbelts and dangerous manoeuvres will be under close surveillance.

As part of its awareness and prevention efforts, the police will also continue their initiative of distributing free safety vests to all pupils in cycle 2.1 of fundamental education. This aims to increase children’s visibility on their way to school and to remind road users that they are among the most vulnerable.