Back to School: Traffic Safety Reminders for a Safer Start to the School Year
When summer winds down and students head back to the classroom, communities across the country experience a noticeable shift in traffic patterns. School zones fill with buses, crossing guards return to duty, and an increase in pedestrian and bike traffic brings new dynamics to local streets. At Snyder & Associates, we work closely with communities to design safe transportation systems. We know that a successful school year begins with a shared commitment to safety of vulnerable roadway users like student pedestrians and bicyclists.
Be alert while driving near school buildings and college campuses, alike. College campuses, such as Iowa State University, are likely to have students commuting at all hours of the day.
Whether you’re a parent, commuter, cyclist, or student, here are four essential traffic safety reminders to keep top of mind this back-to-school season:
1. Slow Down in School Zones
Reduced speed limits during school hours. Slower speed limits in school zones are crucial to conflict reduction and improved safety potential. Reducing speed allows drivers more time to react and significantly decreases the risk of injury for pedestrians and bicyclists in the event of a crash. In many areas, school zone speed limits are strictly enforced during arrival and dismissal hours.
Tip: Always watch for flashing school zone signs and be aware of crossing guards or students near the curb, crosswalks and intersections. Even if you’re running late, rushing through a school zone isn’t worth the risk.
2. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Students walking or biking to school often travel along residential streets with limited sidewalks or crosswalks. Some younger students may not yet have the judgment skills needed to cross safely. Motorists should be especially alert near intersections, mid-block crossings, and multi-use trails that intersect with roadways.
Reduce speed in school zones and be prepared to stop. Look for flashing school zone signs.
Tip: Approach all crosswalks with caution, especially those near schools or parks, and yield to pedestrians. Additional tip: Avoid blocking crosswalks with your vehicle when stopping at a stop sign or traffic signal.
3. Know the Rules Around School Buses
Stay alert when following a bus and anticipate frequent stops. It’s illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children; yet this remains one of the most common and dangerous violations observed during the school year. When a bus extends its stop arm and activates flashing red lights, traffic in both directions must stop (unless on a divided highway).
Tip: Watch for children gathering at bus stops or crossing the street to board the bus.
4. Eliminate Distractions in Drop-Off Zones
School drop-off and pick-up areas are busy. Cars pulling in and out, children entering and exiting vehicles, and impatient drivers all create safety conflicts. Distracted driving, even momentary glances at a phone or digital display can have serious consequences in these high-activity zones.
Tip: Stay focused and off your phone when driving in or near school areas. Follow your school’s designated drop-off procedures and remain patient to help ensure everyone’s safety.
A Shared Responsibility
Creating a safe environment for students is a shared responsibility between city planners, traffic engineers, school officials, parents, and drivers. At Snyder & Associates, we support this goal through thoughtful roadway design, school circulation studies, and safe routes to school planning. But the most immediate impact happens behind the wheel with each of us making smart, safety-conscious choices every day.
Let’s work together to make this school year a safe one for every student, every family, and every community.
