As the school year begins, it’s important to remember that “Back to School” means sharing the road with buses, young pedestrians, and cyclists. With increased traffic in school zones and neighborhoods, slowing down and staying alert can make a significant difference in keeping students safe.
School buses play a vital role in transporting children, and it’s crucial to understand the rules of the road when encountering them. When a bus extends its stop sign and flashes red lights, all drivers—whether approaching from the front or behind—must stop and wait until the lights stop flashing. Ignoring this rule can have life-altering consequences and carries serious legal penalties.
In addition to buses, children may be walking or biking to school, often crossing busy streets. They may be distracted or difficult to see, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours. Drivers should slow down in school zones, obey crossing guards, and avoid distractions such as mobile devices.
By exercising patience, vigilance, and courtesy, we can create safer roads for everyone. Back-to-school season is a reminder that slowing down and sharing the road isn’t just courteous—it’s a crucial step in protecting lives and fostering a safe community. Let’s make safety a priority every day.