Schoolchildren across Central New York head back to school Tuesday and Wednesday, and that brings with it concerns for drivers. Triple A of Western and Central New York is reminding motorists that thousands of children will be around schools and bus stops starting this week.
“Drivers should be especially alert because children can be unpredictable and difficult to see. Careless and distracted driving puts these children at risk whether they are walking, biking, riding a school bus, traveling with a parent or caregiver, or driving themselves if they are a young driver,” said Valerie Puma, communication specialist with AAA Western and Central New York.
Puma added Triple A has a simple ABC to remember: Avoid distractions; Brake for school buses; and Check for pedestrians.
Dewitt Police Sergeant James Dean reminded drivers that many law enforcement agencies will be stepping up patrols around schools and bus stops the first few weeks of school. Plus many school zones and some buses have traffic cameras that can automatically catch speeders and issue tickets.
“With the cameras and the threat of consequence, somebody's always, the camera's always monitoring you. It does help bring the speeds down for people because they know that even though I may not see a patrol car or a police officer at this time, they're still monitoring me with these speed cameras. … Obviously, the police can't be there watching every single car, but (cameras have) definitely helped,” said Dean.
Dean also warned drivers to watch out for E-scooters and E-bikes, which are of growing concern. He noted that while drivers of the bikes and scooters must abide by all traffic laws, they often don’t. They can also dart in and out of traffic unexpectedly around schools and buses.
First day of school is Tuesday for many elementary and middle schools, while some high schools start Wednesday.
