Via: defendernetwork.com
Summer vacation is over, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding motorists to do their part in helping to increase safety around school zones and neighborhoods by using extreme caution when approaching a loading or unloading school bus.
Texas has more than 9,000 schools, with more than a million children and teens dependent upon buses to get them safely to and from class daily.
Texas law states that a motorist can be cited for failure to yield to a school bus with flashing red lights, which indicates children are boarding or exiting the bus. The fine for committing this offense could cost motorists up to $1,000.
Being ticketed for using a cell phone within an active school zone, another illegal act that places children and other pedestrians in harm’s way, can result in a $200 fine.
To promote safer driving during this time of year, TxDOT offers motorists tips to help make the beginning of the school year safer. They include:
o Slow down. Always obey the speed limit when traveling through neighborhoods and school zones.
o Be attentive. Watch for children gathering near bus stops and walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks. Also watch for crossing guards and remember, no cell phone use is allowed.
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