Welcome to the first article in our new “Back-to-School Traffic Safety Series.” As summer winds down and schools reopen their doors, it’s crucial for all drivers to refresh their knowledge about school zone driving safety. Today, we’ll explore essential tips and laws to ensure the safety of our children as they return to school.
Understanding School Zone Laws in Tennessee
- Speed Limits: In Tennessee, the speed limit in school zones is typically 15 mph when children are present. Always obey posted speed limit signs, as they may vary by location.
- Cell Phone Use: In Tennessee, it is illegal to use a hand-held mobile device while driving, including school zones. This law applies even when the vehicle is stopped at a traffic light or in traffic, so be sure to keep your phone away and focus on the road.
- Passing Stopped School Buses: It’s illegal to pass a school bus that has stopped to load or unload children. This applies to traffic in both directions unless the road is divided by a physical barrier.
- Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. In school zones, be extra vigilant for children who may suddenly enter crosswalks.
- Fines and Penalties: Violations in school zones often carry heightened fines and penalties. In some cases, fines for speeding in a school zone can be up to $500.
Essential School Zone Driving Safety Tips
- Slow Down and Stay Alert: Reduce your speed and eliminate distractions. Children can be unpredictable and may dart into the street without warning.
- Watch for Crossing Guards: Always obey the instructions of school crossing guards. They have the same authority as a regulatory traffic sign or signal.
- Be Mindful of Drop-Off Lanes: Follow the school’s procedures for student drop-off and pick-up. Don’t double park or stop in crosswalks to let children out of the car.
- Allow Extra Time: School zones can be congested. Plan your route and allow extra time to avoid rushing, which can lead to unsafe driving behaviors.
- Watch for Children on Bicycles: Children on bikes can be especially hard to see and may lack road experience. Give them plenty of space and be prepared for sudden movements.
- Be Extra Cautious in Bad Weather: Rain or fog can make it harder to see children and signs. Slow down even more in adverse weather conditions.
- Respect School Zone Hours: Pay attention to the times posted on school zone signs. Some zones may have flashing lights to indicate when the lower speed limit is in effect.
The Importance of School Zone Safety
School zone safety is not just about following laws—it’s about protecting our community’s children. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), from 2011 to 2019, there were 1,009 fatal school-transportation-related crashes. Many of these tragedies could have been prevented with more cautious driving.
What to Do If You Witness a School Zone Violation
If you see a driver violating school zone laws:
- Don’t confront the driver yourself.
- If possible, safely note the vehicle’s description and license plate number.
- Report the incident to local law enforcement or school authorities.
- If you witness an immediate danger to children, call 911.
The Role of Community in School Zone Safety
Creating safe school zones is a community effort. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Educate Your Children: Teach your kids about pedestrian safety and the importance of using crosswalks and sidewalks.
- Volunteer: Consider volunteering as a crossing guard or for school traffic duty.
- Report Hazards: If you notice faded crosswalk lines, malfunctioning signals, or other hazards, report them to local authorities.
- Set a Good Example: Always follow school zone laws and safety practices, whether you’re driving or walking.
Conclusion
As we begin another school year, let’s all commit to making school zones as safe as possible for our children. By following these school zone driving safety tips and laws, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that every child makes it to and from school safely.
Stay tuned for our next article in the “Back-to-School Traffic Safety Series,” where we’ll discuss navigating increased traffic during school hours.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a school zone 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
