Most Dallas-Fort Worth schools have returned from the summer break now, so it's the perfect opportunity for all of us to refresh ourselves on some of the basics we learned in drivers ed. There are bound to be bus stops in your neighborhood, but do you remember all the rules when driving around school buses?
In Texas, state law requires approaching drivers to stop when a school bus is stopped and operating a visual signal (red flashing lights or a stop sign). Only when the school bus resumes motion are other drivers allowed to proceed. The most dangerous time for school bus wrecks is when children are entering and exiting the bus because children may not be looking for oncoming traffic when they step into the roadway. That's why all drivers must proceed with caution and alertness even after the school bus is done unloading.
When you pick up your kids or are driving through a school cross walk, remember, the use of a hand-held cell phone is prohibited in school zones everywhere in Texas. So put your conversation on hold until you're out of your car and at home. Also, keep a safe distance from school buses and large trucks to prevent car accidents. We all learned about No-Zones in driving school, but remember where these blind spots are on buses and trucks. Crashes are more likely to happen if you're driving in the front, side and rear No-Zone area where your car literally "disappears" from the driver's view.
Remember these basic driving rules so everyone can have a safe and happy school year - accident free!
