Rockland County Reminds Everyone to Put Safety First as Students Head Back to School

As the new school year begins, young students are walking or biking to and from school, waiting at bus stops to ride the school bus, or get dropped off at school in private vehicles. Rockland County is reminding parents, caregivers, students, and drivers to take extra precautions during the busy morning and afternoon commutes. With children of all ages on the roadways during these busy hours it is important for everyone to stay alert and follow roadway laws and safety precautions to help prevent crashes.

Younger children can be especially difficult for drivers to see because of their height, making awareness important for everyone sharing the road. Some children will be gathering for the first time at the bus stop, crossing new streets, or perhaps walking to school for the first time. They may be distracted as they get on and off the bus, talk with friends, or are excited to see their caretaker at the bus stop after school.

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Rockland County encourages everyone to review these safety tips and discuss them with children:

• Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive to give you plenty of time to watch for traffic and cross the street safely without rushing to catch the bus.
• Stay at least 10 feet, or about five giant steps, away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
• Wait until the bus has come to a complete stop and the driver signals that it is safe to board.
• When crossing the street, look left, right, and left again to check for traffic and continue watching for vehicles as you cross.
• Never walk behind a school bus. If you must cross in front of the bus, stay at least 10 feet in front so the driver can easily see you.
• If you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver rather than trying to retrieve it yourself.

Drivers are also encouraged to stay alert as they have an important role in keeping students safe. Slow down around schools and neighborhood bus stops, particularly during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal times. Yellow flashing school bus lights mean the bus is preparing to stop, while red flashing lights mean children are getting on or off the bus and motorists must stop. In New York State, drivers approaching a school bus displaying flashing red lights must stop at least 20 feet away from the school bus in either direction, including on two-lane roads, multi-lane highways, and divided highways.

Take a few moments to review safe walking, crossing, and school bus habits to help students start the school year safely and confidently. Remember: Eyes on the Road, Rockland. Stay alert. Be seen. Help every student get to school and home safely.

Rockland County's Safe Street program is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration with a grant from the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. For more information on pedestrian safety, visit the Rockland County Department page at https://rcklnd.us/Safe-Streets.