As the school year gets underway, many motorists need a little reminder on some back to school driving basics. Kids are well–kids! They are often not paying attention, impulsive and difficult to see. Here are some safety tips you can do to help keep school children safe and be a better driver.
School Zones / SLOW DOWN! The posted school zone speed limit is 20 mph. When you slow down, other drivers around you will slow down as well. This leaves more time to react to a potential hazard that may lie ahead. School zone speed limits protect kids in two different ways: by reducing the chances of a collision and by reducing the severity of a collision if one does occur. Children often ignore hazards or fail to look both ways when crossing the street. They are also more likely to cut across the street instead of safely crossing at corners or marked crosswalks.
Walkers & Bikes / Drivers are not the only ones who need to follow the rules of the road. It’s also important for people walking and riding their bicycles to do so as well. Pedestrians need to cross at corners or marked crosswalks and should never dart out between parked cars. Pay attention! No texting while walking or riding a bike. Bicyclists need to follow the rules of the road and obey all traffic laws. Remember to use hand signals when stopping and turning.
School Buses / Illinois law requires drivers on a two-lane roadway in both directions to stop for school buses with lights flashing and the stop sign lowered. Many motorists get confused on whether they should stop for a bus on a four-lane roadway. The answer is no. Drivers going in the opposite direction of a bus, on a four lane roadway do not need to stop. Always remember to yield to a school bus if they are attempting to merge and do not tailgate.
It is the Naperville Police Departments goal to ensure the safety of all school children as they travel to and from school. Please do your part as well.
Until next month… Stay aware and stay safe.
