Kids will be back in school; drive with extra caution
As St. Charles schools go back in session Wednesday, Aug. 19, kids will be out at bus stops, buses will be stopping on the roads, and parents will be driving their children to and from school. So please proceed with extra caution around our schools and in our neighborhoods, especially during the morning rush hours.
Help us keep children safe and review these traffic laws:
Cellphone ban
As of Jan. 1, 2014, Illinois law bans the use of all hand-held devices while driving. Only hands-free technology such as speakerphones, Bluetooth, and headsets are permitted. In addition:
• All cellphone use is prohibited while driving in a school zone
• All cellphone use is prohibited while driving in a highway construction zone
• All cellphone use is prohibited if you are a novice driver
• All Illinois drivers are prohibited from texting.
Don't pass a stopped school bus
•·On a two-lane road, you must stop in either lane before meeting or overtaking a school bus loading or unloading passengers. The school bus driver will give a warning at least 100 feet in advance of a stop by flashing their amber and red lights on the front and rear of the bus and extending the stop signal arm. You must come to a complete stop.
• You may proceed when the school bus resumes motion or the bus driver signals you to do so.
• You also may proceed when the flashing lights are turned off and the stop arm is no longer extended.
• You do not always need to stop when meeting a stopped school bus on a roadway with four or more lanes.
Watch for kids walking and biking
• Please watch for young children walking and riding their bikes especially around our schools and in residential areas.
• Take extra care when backing out of driveways.
• Come to a complete stop when approaching stop intersections and give kids a chance to cross safely.
"We know this time of year can be hectic," says St. Charles Chief of Police Jim Keegan, "But it only takes a few minutes to wait for a school bus or stop for a crossing guard. Our officers will be spending additional time patrolling to ensure safety and compliance because we want to be sure our children have a happy and safe school year."
About the City of St. Charles
Friendly neighborhoods, diverse retailers, international employers, innovative schools, beautiful parks, varied cultural amenities, and unique architecture have earned St. Charles its reputation as the Pride of the Fox. Located in both DuPage and Kane counties, the City of St. Charles is 35 miles west of downtown Chicago, and has a population of approximately 33,000. Over 2,100 businesses, consisting of a balanced mix of retailers, restaurants and manufacturing facilities, employ more than 18,000 people. The City of St. Charles was named the #1 City for Families by Family Circle® magazine in 2011; one of the "150 Great Places in Illinois," by the AIA Illinois; and one of the "Top 10 Towns To Live In" by West Suburban Living magazine. Visit www.stcharlesil.gov.