By now, all but the youngest of River Parishes students has returned to school. And while parents may welcome the return to routine, many motorists dread the coming of another school year.
Particularly for those commuting to or from work, school zones and school buses provide unwanted impediments while driving. Additionally, motorists’ nerves may be a little more frayed than usual as the school year also brings more traffic in the way of parents driving children to school. But arriving at work a few minutes later than desired is a small price to pay for the safety of our children.
Motorists are required to stop at least 30 feet away from a school bus that has stopped to load or unload children. Stopping is required by law whether you are approaching a bus from the opposite direction or traveling behind it.
Drivers must take other safety precautions during the school year, such as slowing down and obeying the posted speed limit in school zones. All motorists should also be alert and watch for students, who may dart into the street without looking.
So do not fall prey to the temptation to speed through a school zone or around a stopped school bus just to save a little time. At best, you’ll receive a ticket with a hefty fine and still be late for work; at worst, a child could end up severely injured or dead.