4 Important Tips for Motorists When Driving in School Zones

traffic safety

Recently there has a been a string of accidents involving students at or near school bus stops.

Students depend on us to drive safely and responsibly. It is our duty to ensure the safety of children crossing to get on and off the bus. Traffic Safety GA cares about students’ safety and wants to suggest traffic safety signs be used to help direct motorists driving in school zones.

Tip 1: Slow Down

This one is pretty self-explanatory but should be emphasized heavily. If a school bus driver hasn’t extended the arm and the red lights aren’t flashing, but appears to be coming to a stop, slow down anyway. Most likely the school bus will be making several stops in the neighborhood and you will need to keep a slow pace behind the bus until it is clear of children. Essentially, there won’t be a lighted stop sign near school bus stops - be extra cautious in the morning when passing.

Tip 2: Leave Early

If you want to avoid being caught behind a school bus in the morning, track what time the school bus arrives in your area, try to leave out ten minutes early, and be watchful of children. Generally, the bus schedule doesn’t change so you can expect the bus to arrive around the same time each day. Leave a few minutes earlier to avoid the stop and go. Traffic Safety GA cares about the safety of motorists and passengers.

Tip 3: Pay Attention to the Lights

The flashing yellow lights indicate the bus preparing to stop to load or unload children. The flashing red lights with the extended arms means children are getting on or off. Motorists are required to come to a complete stop and wait until the extended arm is withdrawn, the red lights stop flashing, and the bus begins to move. Once the bus begins to move then motorists can begin to proceed again.

Tip 4: Pay Attention to Traffic and Safety signs

Traffic and safety signs are very important indicators for motorists. Pay attention to school zones signage and the speed limit. Traffic Safety GA supplies signage to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians. Contact us today for information on how we can help.