Keep Kids Safe as They Return to School

Published on August 19, 2024

SAN ANTONIO (August 19, 2024) — As children head back toschool, the San Antonio Municipal Court would like to share safety tips for drivers as part of its Drive SAfely SA campaign. During the traffic transition from summer to the new school year, drivers should expect:

• School zone speed limits back in effect.
• An increase in bike, pedestrian, and motor vehicle traffic.
• Traffic pattern changes in residential neighborhoods and around schools.
• School buses to be back on the road picking up and dropping off passengers.

Traffic and pedestrian accidents are often preventable. Drivers should follow these tips to ensure children reach school safely:

• Know and follow all warning signs and signals in school zones and on school buses.
• Allow for a greater following distance when behind a school bus.
• Slow down, stay alert and watch for kids crossing between parked cars.
• Always yield to pedestrians and bicyclists no matter who has the right of way.
• Don’t text or take calls while driving in a schoolcrossing zone or on school property.
• Follow the directions of a school patrol officer or crossing guard.

In addition to helping keep everyone safe, these tips will help drivers avoid costly fines. Last school year, the San Antonio Police Department issued over 6,000 citations for Speeding in a SchoolZone, over 75 for Passing a Stopped School Bus and about 200 citations for Use of a Wireless Communication Device in a SchoolCrossing Zone/School Property. Traffic fines increase for tickets issued in a school zone and can carry a fine of up to $1,250 for the first offense.