Back-To-School Traffic Enforcement Planned In Loudoun County

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — To encourage area motorists to be extra aware of students heading back to school this week, the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office is planning additional speed and traffic enforcement near area schools. The enforcement is part of the agency’s back-to-school public education campaign.

Deputies will use Smart Trailers, or speed measurement devices, in addition to variable message boards to display safety messages, marked and unmarked cruisers and the agency’s motor unit. In a video message, Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman reminded drivers to “slow down and stay alert and help make this a great school year.”

The sheriff’s office also compiled tips from the National Safety Council to help students, parents, drivers and other motorists stay safe this school year.

Walkers

• Parents: Practice walking to school with your child, crossing streets at crosswalks when available.
• Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you must walk in the street, walk facing traffic.
• Before crossing the street, stop and look left, right, and left again to see if cars are coming.
• Never dart out in front of a parked car.
• Never walk while texting or talking on the phone.
• Do not walk while using headphones.
• Pay attention to crossing guards.

Bike Riders

• Always wear a helmet that is fitted and secured properly. Children need to know the rules of the road: Ride single file on the right side of the road, come to a complete stop before crossing the street, and walk the bike across.
• Watch for opening car doors and other hazards.
• Use hand signals when turning.
• Wear bright-colored clothing

Bus Riders

• Parents: Teach children the proper way to get on and off the bus. Line up 6 feet away from the curb as the bus approaches.
• If seat belts are available, buckle up.
• Wait for the bus to stop completely before standing.
• Do not cross in front of the bus if possible, or walk at least 10 feet ahead until you can see the other drivers.

Drivers

• Don’t block crosswalks.
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and take extra care in school zones. Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians.
• Never pass a bus loading or unloading children.
• The area 10 feet surrounding a school bus is the most dangerous for children. Provide sufficient space to allow children to safely enter and exit the bus.
• Don’t text and drive.
• Comply with speed limit signs when in school zones.