EVERETT, SEPT. 5: School is back in session. Local law enforcement is now in place around many schools. Drivers need to break summer driving habits and resume school safety driving skills as the new school year begins.
Be sure to obey the 20-mph school zone speed limit. Many roadways with nearby schools also have flashing yellow lights and signs, reminding motorists of marked school zones.
All drivers travelling on a two-lane road need to stop when a school bus has red lights flashing and the paddle stop sign extended. When school bus lights are yellow before stopping, slow down and prepare to stop, and avoid zipping around the bus before it stops with red lights flashing. On multi-lane roadways, only motorists driving in the same direction as the bus need to stop.
Many students walk or ride bicycles to and from school. Be fully aware of crossing zones and stop when crossing volunteers show flags for safe crossings. For bicycles, provide at least three feet of passing space, at a slow speed, to avoid collisions. It is also important for students walking or cycling to and from school to follow the rules of the road by commuting safely – the rules of the road apply equally.
Law enforcement is looking to enhance safety around many schools in the area. Hence, these school safety reminders are critical. Fines for passing stopped school buses and speeding through school zones are steep, up to $500 fine. Getting a ticket will also adversely impact driving records and insurance rates.
All of these school safety driving skills become increasingly important as days grow shorter and nights longer, and when the weather turns wetter and cooler.
