Schools and school zone driving
During this time of year, Maple Valley police would like to remind folks about the safety issues involved with driving near schools and in school zone areas. This is the time of year when most drivers have to deal with children walking to and from school, school crossing guards and the ever present (and frequently stopping) school buses. Please make an effort to be extra cautious and alert whenever you are driving, but especially around schools where an abundance of children at this time of year creates the need for a bit more vigilance on the part of everyone.
There are several state laws specific to schools and driving. These laws cover what to do when you come upon a school bus with its amber lights flashing, what you are required to do when a school patrol member directs you to stop, and what specifically constitutes a school zone and the penalty associated with speeding through it.
One of the most important and easiest driving tips to remember is to pay attention. Use common sense while driving; many avoidable accidents are caused by driver inattention – applying makeup, changing the radio station or CD, looking down to pick items up off the floorboard, or just focusing on things other than the road, vehicles or pedestrians in the area.
Parents must do some homework to keep their kids healthy and safe. Don’t let safety fall by the wayside.
- Walk and ride to school safely. Obey traffic lights and signals, walk only in crosswalks, and listen to the crossing guard.
- If your kid’s bike to school be sure they wear a helmet.
- If possible, always walk your child to the bus stop and pick them up as well.
- Keep backpacks light-a child’s backpack should only be 5 to 10 percent of his or her body weight, according to the American Chiropractic Association.
- A backpack with wheels is easy to maneuver and reduces back stress. If your child does choose to wear a backpack, utilize both straps. Slinging the backpack over one shoulder may cause spinal curvature.
- Be on time.
- Never run to or from the bus.
- Stand back from the curb.
- Don’t push or shove.
- Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing.
- Always cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus.
- Never crawl under a school bus.
- Stay in your seat.
- Don’t yell or shout.
- Always obey the driver.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Go to bed early, wake up early and be refreshed.
- Leave five or ten minutes early, so you will not need to speed.
- Obey all traffic laws.
- Never pass vehicles on solid lines and do not try to drive around them on the shoulder of the road.
- Pedestrians always have the right of way.
- Never try to “beat” other cars or trains.
- Do not talk or text with cell phone.
- Do not wear any type of ear phones.
