The Illinois State Police is reminding motorists to slow down and be mindful of students and buses as area schools begin the new school year.
In a press release, ISP said “motorists need to be watchful for children walking and riding their bicycles to school and children darting out from between parked cars. Motorists also need to be on the lookout for slowing and stopped school buses.”
Speed limits in school zones are 20 m.p.h. between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on days where children are present.
Drivers are also required by law to stop before reaching a stopped school bus with lights activated and a stop sign extended.
“It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the safety of our children. District 14 reminds all drivers to watch their speed and not to use their cell phones in school zones. Troopers will be increasing their presence to focus on school zone speed, seat belt violations, illegal use of electronic devices, and other forms of distracted driving. If you see a school zone or a stopped/slowed school bus, please slow down,” ISP District 14 Commander, Captain Jon Dively, said in the press release.
ISP also advises drivers to allow extra time for their commute due to increased traffic.
