Illinois State Police issue back-to-school safety reminder

SPRINGFIELD - Illinois State Police officials would like to remind motorists that area schools will soon open their doors to begin the new school year. The start of the school year means an increase in pedestrian and vehicular traffic around schools and decreased speed limits in school zones.

Motorists need to be watchful of children walking and riding their bicycles to school, as well as children darting out from between parked cars. Allow extra travel time for the increased traffic during the morning and afternoon commute as children go to and return from school.

Motorists are reminded they are required to reduce their speed in school zones. The speed limit in a school zone is 20 miles per hour and is in effect from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on school days when children are present.

Use of an electronic device, including cellphones, while traveling in a school zone is illegal. Distracted driving is a major contributory cause in serious injury and fatal crashes. Crashes caused by distracted driving can result in hefty fines and criminal charges if serious injury or a fatality occurs.

Motorists also need to be on the lookout for slowing and stopped school buses. When approaching a stopped school bus with lights activated and sign extended, motorists must stop their vehicle before reaching the school bus. Failure to do so can result in a $150 fine and the suspension of your driver's license for three months.

Pedestrians have the right-of-way in a crosswalk. Crossing guards are in place to assist children on their way to and from school. Disobeying a crossing guard can result in higher penalties for failing to yield the right-of-way at the crosswalk

Whether on the way to school or work, drivers must be mindful of the school zone speed limit on school days when children are present. Do not use your electronic device, including your cellphone, in school zones; do not text while driving; do not pass a stopped school bus; wear your seat belt; and be patient with the increased traffic flow during the school day.

"Ensuring the safety of our schoolchildren, whether they bike, walk, or ride the bus to school, is everyone's responsibility," said ISP Colonel Tad Williams. "Adhering to some very basic safe driving tips could help prevent a tragic crash," he added.

To be safe in a school zone, motorists should follow these safety tips:

• Slow down - obey all traffic laws and speed limits.

• Do not use an electronic device, including a cellphone, in a school zone - your focus needs to be on the road.

• Do not pass other vehicles or change lanes in a school zone.