Safe In 60: It’s Time For Drivers To Pay Extra Attention In School Zones
Aug 24, 2020, 6:23 AM
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Over the past month, there’s been plenty of coverage on health and safety in school, most of which has been related to COVID-19.
There are some important safety reminders that haven’t changed – like keeping kids safe as they walk in school zones. That responsibility falls on Utah drivers.
It’s been some time since commuters have seen the flashing lights at school crossing zones and school buses. It also may take some time to get back into the groove of sharing the road as the school year starts.
One of the best things drivers can do is leave on time. People make more mistakes when they’re in a hurry, and those mistakes can be deadly when children are walking to school.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as districts reopen:
- Watch out for school zones and crossing guards. Once you’re in a school zone, never pass, change lanes or make a U-turn.
- Keep an eye out for school buses. Remember you must stop in both directions when the red lights are flashing. The only exception is for divided highways.
- Learn the drop-off rules for your school ahead of time. If you know where to expect children walking, it makes everybody that much safer.
- Remind your children to do their part, too. Walk the route with them and talk them through crossing the road safely. Teach them to avoid distractions like headphones and their phone – just like a driver would.