School is back in session and while we were all adjusting to the first week, you may have noticed an increase in drivers and traffic out on the roads. Sending students back after a long summer can be difficult, but being prepared makes things more enjoyable for everyone. Whether you drive your children to school, or put them on the bus every morning, there are some things that we need to watch out for at this time of year.
Always plan to leave EARLY. Doing so can prepare yourself for slow moving traffic, detours, and any other unexpected occurrences.
- School Bus Crossings
Last year, the Richmond Public School system installed cameras on their school buses. The goals of this precaution was to slow down drivers and ensure they are following the rules of the road. If a bus extends it’s stop signs and is flashing red lights, both directions of traffic must stop. Remember, you must always stop and remain stop until all pedestrians are clear and the bus moves. Richmond police say drivers who are caught on camera passing a stopped school bus that has its lights flashing and the cross-arm out will receive a $250 Notice of Violation in the mail.
- Heavy/Slow Moving Traffic
Back to school traffic can be difficult, especially at the beginning of the year. Families are working out the kinks in their morning routines, getting used to new commutes and basically feeling stressed. The stress of running late can cause speeding and other dangerous driving maneuvers. This can cause accidents, which would only delay the morning further while putting other drivers and pedestrians at risk. Please remember to leave a little extra time in the morning, take a deep breath when getting behind the wheel and relax, we will all eventually get where we are going.
- School Drop Off Zones
School drop of zones are the most hazardous areas for children during this time of year. Schools often have very specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids. The following apply to all school zones:
- Don’t double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
- Don’t load or unload children across the street from the school
- If you can, carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school
At Reid Goodwin we encourage everyone to be aware of their surroundings when getting their children to school, or commuting to and from work. The moments it takes for you to pass a bus or speed around traffic could endanger lives. If you or anyone you know has been injured by an unsafe driver, contact our office to let one of our attorneys assist you.