Pretty much every school has a “designated school zone” surrounding it. This usually requires drivers to slow down and stop more frequently. Though it may seem like an inconvenience, it’s there for a reason, to keep children safe! Here are some tips on how to pass safely through the school zone.
· Expect the unexpected: Kids like to run and play, and don’t always pay attention to what’s going on around them. As a motorist, it’s your job to look out for potentially hazardous situations, so stay alert and pay attention!
· Stop properly at stop signs and crosswalks: You must come to a complete stop at a stationary stop sign, every time, especially in a school zone. When you come to a cross walk be sure to obey the direction of the crossing guard. If you pull partially in to the cross walk, children may be forced to walk around your car putting them in the line of traffic, so be sure to always stop outside of it. Finally, always wait until the crossing guard completely clears the crosswalk before moving.
· Obey the speed limit: Faster speeds increase the chance for accidents. Most school zones have a speed limit of 20MPH or less. Faster driving means longer stopping distances. If you obey the speed limit, you will be able to stop more quickly if you need to.
· Wait your turn near school buses: It's illegal in all 50 states to pass a bus on undivided roadways if the vehicle is stopped to load and unload children. Most buses have a stop sign with flashing lights that will indicate it is stopping to drop off passengers. Once all of the children are safely on the sidewalk, but bus will fold in its sign and proceed to the next stop. Once you have double checked to make sure it’s safe to move, proceed to your destination.
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