by Sam Smart

Created on: February 10, 2010   Last Updated: February 12, 2010

School zones are designed for the safety of schoolchildren during normal school hours.  Particularly there have been too many drivers who neglect certain rules traveling near schools that are in session. Drivers commuting near schools where children may be present need to pay extra attention for them, slow down, and obey any crossing guards. The main priority is to ensure safety for people who are near schools, especially children.

*Obey Crossing Guards

In many neighborhoods, there are crossing guards who help children crossing streets near schools.  If you see a crossing guard holding a stop sign in the middle of the street letting children pass, stop for them.  Wait for the children and the crossing guard to safely walk off the street before you resume your driving.

*Do Not Speed

Police are very strict when it comes to drivers speeding in school zones.  Officers have a right to pay close attention to people driving in school zones.  If those drivers speed, they should be expected to get citations.  Be sure that you drive at or below given speed limits in school zones.  Do not even think about assuming that a police officer is not around so you can get away speeding, because you will likely get a speeding ticket.        

*Watch out for Children

Children who are either arriving or leaving school are likely to be walking near streets.  Drivers who drop or pick up their children can encounter other students walking in front of cars.  Be especially on a look out for buses that arrive to bus stops.  There may be loads of students who stand on curbs near the traffic. 

*Use Turn Signals

It is important for you to notify other drivers where you are going by using your turn signal.  This way, there will be accidental collisions among cars.  Simply use the signals whenever you make a turn.

*Pay Attention to Traffic Signals and Other Road Signs

Whenever you encounter other signs such as stop signs and school crossing signs, obey them. When you approach a stop sign, simply stop and make sure you and other children and drivers safely have the right-of-way.  Be prepared to stop when you come across traffic signals displaying warning yellow lights or red stop lights. 

Driving in school zones is just like driving in general.  You need to be careful of other pedestrians and drivers, and be obedient to signs and traffic signals.  Doing so will keep yourself and everyone else safe.

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