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As students head back to school in counties across our state here are a few friendly reminders to keep everyone safe this school year. 

Pedestrian Crossing 

Don’t forget there will likely be increased pedestrian as well as vehicular traffic around schools. Slow down and use caution in these areas. It may still be dark or foggy in some areas, take extra caution in school zones and lookout for officers or crossing guards in or near the roadways.  

Don’t block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or when waiting to make a turn, doing so forces pedestrians to go around you and further into oncoming traffic.  

Slow Down

Be familiar with school zones and reduce your traveling speed. If you get stopped by an officer in these zones, you are likely to get a ticket and fines are higher in school zones. 

Plan Your Route

Use designated walking areas when bringing or picking up your child from school. These routes were created with your safety in mind. Only cross the roadway in marked cross walks and remember to stop, look, and listen before entering the roadway. 

Don’t double park in the school lot, it could block visibility for other children and vehicles causing a safety hazard. 

No Passing Zone

Motorists are not permitted to pass a stopped school bus when the crossing arm and flashing red lights are activated on the bus. Remember children are sometimes unpredictable and may take risks because they aren’t aware of the hazards surrounding the area around school buses. Be alert when students are exiting the bus, some may have to cross the roadway on their way home or may enter traffic unexpectedly. 

The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children, please stop far enough back to allow space for them to safely enter and exit the bus. 

Share the Road 

When passing a bicyclist, proceed in the same direction slowly, and leave at least 3 feet between your car and the cyclist.  If you’re turning left and a bicyclist is approaching in the opposite direction, wait for the rider to pass. Also, if you’re turning right and a bicyclist is approaching from behind on the right, let the rider go through the intersection first. Don’t forget to always use your turn signals. 

Some young bicyclist may not know how to properly signal when turning, watch closely in case a young bicyclist turns in front of your vehicle without signaling. Don’t forget to watch for bicyclists coming from driveways or from behind parked cars, always remember to check your side mirrors before opening your door. 

Content provided by the National Safety Council