It's a good time to be reminded of school zone laws and courtesies to keep our children safe. The end of summer means millions of
Texas children will soon return to school. TxDOT reminds drivers to be extra
cautious as school zones become more active and be aware of school bus safety.
Last year, 663 vehicle crashes
occurred in school zones in Texas, resulting in zero deaths and 21 serious
injuries. August and September of 2014 alone saw 107 crashes in school zones.
The most common factors contributing to these crashes were driver inattention,
failure to control speed and failure to yield the right of way at stop signs.
Following these simple tips can help
Texas children reach school safely and help drivers avoid costly fines and
tickets.
Tips for Driving in School Zones
- Put away your cell phone. Cell phone use is banned in active school zones, and violators face fines of up to $200 in school zones where signs are posted.
- Always obey school zone speed limit signs. Remember, traffic fines usually double in school zones.
- Drop off and pick up your children in your school’s designated areas, not the middle of the street.
- Keep an eye on children gathered at bus stops.
- Be alert for children who might dart across the street or between vehicles on their way to school.
This information and more about school safety can be found on the TXDOT website. http://www.txdot.gov/driver/kids-teens/school.html
