Students, Motorists, Cyclists & School Bus Drivers Urged to Heighten Awareness Around School Zones

Ashkum, IL – Students are headed back to school for a new school year and the Illinois
State Police are reminding the citizens of Illinois to take the necessary safety precautions while driving through school communities.

Illinois State Police District 21 Commander Lieutenant Randy Ness is urging motorists, cyclists, school bus drivers, students and parents about the increased vehicular traffic as well as pedestrian traffic in and around school zones.

"As schools across Illinois open their doors for a new school year, Illinois State Police want to remind the public that school zone speed limits will be enforced and drivers should pay attention to the pedestrian traffic and school buses with flashing lights and safety signals," said Lieutenant Colonel Todd Kilby. "Officers will also increase their presence to focus on school zone speed; electronic device and seatbelt violations and other forms of distracted driving," he added.

These violations are serious and can result in hefty fines and possible license suspensions.

To be safe in school zones, motorists should follow these safety tips:
 Motorists must stop for red flashing lights when the stop arms are extended when driving behind a bus and when coming toward a bus on an undivided road.
 If the roadway is divided (two lanes in each direction) motorist traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.

Illinois State Police Safety Education Officers are available to provide educational presentations at area schools and throughout the community promoting safe driving habits. Lieutenant Randy Ness added that District 21's primary goal is to ensure the safety of our driving communities with vigilance and increase public awareness.

94.1 WGFA