It’s back to school season! Summer is coming to an end, and we’ll be seeing more buses on the road. Make sure you know what is legal and what is not when driving through a school zone.
Speed
When you think of a school zone, the first thing you may think about is the blinking speed limit sign. In school zones, the speed limit significantly decreases, typically during a set time like “7am-6pm on school days.” While it can be an annoyance to slow down when you’re trying to get to work in the morning, it’s important to follow the speed limit. Speeding is dangerous, especially when there are children in the area who are less aware of their surroundings. Not only is there the risk of injury, but a financial risk. A speeding ticket in a school zone can be significantly higher than a standard speeding ticket.
Cell Phone Use
Each state has different laws when it comes to using cellphones while driving. As of now, you are allowed to talk on a handheld device while driving in Kansas. However, texting while driving is illegal.
A bill was proposed earlier this year that would change these laws. The proposed bill prohibits talking on a cellphone in a school zone. If this bill becomes a law, drivers face being ticketed for distracted driving.
School Buses
You may encounter school buses outside of formal school zones. However, there are still specific rules you need to follow in these situations. You may be tempted to go around the school bus while it is stopped – but don’t. It is illegal to pass a school bus while it is stopped with its flashing lights on. When the lights are flashing, it means children are getting on or off the bus. If you speed past a school bus with flashing lights, you risk hitting a child who is crossing the road to get home.
Additional Safety Tips
We know that when you have somewhere to be, you want to get there quickly. However, it is important to drive safely in school zones to protect the children.
In addition to following the rules above:
Don’t block school zone crosswalks
Respect the crossing guard
Don’t pass other drivers in school zones, even if they aren’t school buses
Watch out for any children nearby
Stay calm behind the wheel
Kansas City Car Accident Attorneys
It is important to be especially cognizant of your surroundings when driving in a school zone. However, accidents may still happen. If you or a loved one was injured by a car in a school zone, you may be able to seek compensation. To learn more about whether or not you may have a valid injury claim, contact our team at DiPasquale Moore. We are happy to review your case and provide guidance on your next best steps.