It’s almost time for schools to open their doors once again. The activity around elementary schools, middle schools and high schools will be in full swing. Children will be heading to and from cars, busses, and homes and motorists need to be careful when driving through school zones. Generally speaking, school zones are well marked with signs and warning lights, but for students who walk to school, the areas outside of the school zone can be dangerous.

Many drivers only take caution when they see the flashing lights on school zone sign, forgetting that some students may be walking several blocks to get to their school. This means that sidewalks and crosswalks in the vicinity of schools that are outside of the school zone can be bustling with activity.

In some cases crossing guards may be placed at bust intersections to help students cross the road in the mornings and evenings. If you are a driver who drives near schools on a daily basis, it’s important to be aware of crossing guards, and heed their hand held stop signs as they step out into traffic. Ignoring a crossing guard can result in serious consequences. Don’t risk getting a ticket or potentially harming an individual just because you’re in a hurry. If you need to rush to get somewhere, plat an alternative route that avoids school zones and guarded crosswalks.