Lessons in school zone safety

School zone cautions

When driving through a school zone and in the area surrounding a school, a driver’s undivided attention needs to be on the road, looking out for potential hazards:

• Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits in school zones as well as the area surrounding a school.

• Drive defensively:
  • Continually scan the road,
  • Be on the lookout for children gathering near bus stops, and
  • Watch for children walking or bicycling near a school.

• Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign.
• Stop and yield to pedestrians crossing at the crosswalk or intersection when flashers are blinking in a school zone.
• Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.

School bus laws

All states have laws in place to protect children as they board and exit school buses. Though specifics vary from state-to-state, there are standard rules that apply everywhere.

Never pass a school bus:

• When its lights are flashing and its stop arm is extended. This means children are boarding or exiting the bus.
• On the right side. This is where children enter and exit the bus.

In many states, school bus drivers can report illegally passing vehicles. The illegal action does not need to be observed by law enforcement for a driver to be cited.

Key to remember:By providing an annual review of school zone safety, your drivers are better equipped to handle their first encounter with students during this new school year.