Welcome back to our “Back-to-School Traffic Safety Series.” In our previous article, we discussed essential school zone driving tips and laws. Today, we’re tackling another crucial aspect of back-to-school season: the surge in traffic during school hours. As Nashville’s roads become busier with the start of the academic year, it’s vital to adapt our driving habits to ensure everyone’s safety.
Understanding the Back-to-School Traffic Surge
The return to school brings a significant increase in traffic volume, particularly during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times. This surge isn’t just limited to school zones; it affects major thoroughfares and residential areas across Nashville. Here’s what you need to know:
Peak Traffic Hours
- Morning: Typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM
- Afternoon: Usually from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Common Causes of Increased Congestion
- Parents driving children to and from school
- School buses on their routes
- Teenage drivers heading to high schools
- Teachers and school staff commuting
- General commuters sharing the roads
Strategies for Safe Navigation During School Hours
1. Plan Ahead and Leave Early
One of the most effective ways to deal with increased traffic is to adjust your schedule:
- Wake up earlier to avoid rushing
- Plan to leave 10-15 minutes earlier than usual
- Use traffic apps to check for congestion and plan alternate routes
2. Practice Defensive Driving
With more vehicles on the road, defensive driving becomes crucial:
- Maintain a safe following distance (at least 3 seconds)
- Anticipate sudden stops, especially near schools and bus stops
- Be extra vigilant at intersections and crosswalks
- Avoid distractions like phone use or eating while driving
3. Respect School Buses and Zones
Remember that school buses make frequent stops:
- Never pass a school bus with its stop sign extended
- Be prepared to stop when you see a bus’s yellow flashing lights
- In school zones, adhere strictly to reduced speed limits
4. Use Alternative Routes
Consider taking less congested roads:
- Explore backroads or side streets to avoid main thoroughfares
- Be cautious in residential areas, as they may have more pedestrians
5. Carpool or Use Public Transportation
Reducing the number of vehicles on the road helps everyone:
- Organize a carpool with neighbors or coworkers
- Consider using Nashville’s public transportation system
- If possible, adjust your work hours to avoid peak school traffic times
Understanding Tennessee Traffic Laws During School Hours
Knowing and following the law is crucial for safe driving and avoiding penalties:
- School Zone Speed Limits: In Tennessee, the speed limit in school zones is typically 15-20 mph when children are present. Fines for speeding in school zones are often doubled.
- School Bus Laws: It’s illegal to pass a school bus that’s loading or unloading children. This applies to both directions of traffic unless the road is divided by a median.
- Distracted Driving: Tennessee has a hands-free law. It’s illegal to hold a mobile device while driving, with fines starting at $50 for a first offense, and the fine can increase to $200 if the violation occurs in a school zone while flashers are in operation.
- Right-of-Way for Pedestrians: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. This is especially important near schools where children may be crossing.
The Impact of Traffic Violations in School Zones
Traffic violations in school zones are taken very seriously in Tennessee:
- Fines are often doubled in school zones
- Points on your license may be increased for school zone violations
- Repeat offenses can lead to license suspension
- In case of accidents, penalties can include criminal charges
Tips for Parents and Student Drivers
For Parents:
- Use designated drop-off and pick-up zones at schools
- Consider letting your child take the bus to reduce congestion
- Teach your children about pedestrian safety
For Student Drivers:
- Leave early to avoid rushing
- Avoid distractions, including your phone and other teen passengers
- Be extra cautious in school parking lots and zones
When Accidents Happen: Know Your Rights
Despite our best efforts, accidents can still occur. If you’re involved in a traffic accident:
- Ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 if there are injuries
- Document the scene with photos and gather witness information
- Report the accident to your insurance company
- Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage
Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility
As we navigate the increased traffic during school hours, let’s remember that road safety is a collective responsibility. By planning ahead, staying alert, and following traffic laws, we can all contribute to making Nashville’s roads safer for everyone, especially our children.
Stay tuned for our next article in the “Back-to-School Traffic Safety Series,” where we’ll discuss safety tips for student drivers and new teen drivers.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a school-related traffic accident, Stillman & Friedland Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Call our Nashville team at 615-244-2111 for a free, confidential consultation. You can also reach out via our live chat or online contact form.
Drive safely and watch out for our little ones, Nashville.
Because we care…
Stillman and Friedland
