Back to School: Driver Safety Near Crosswalk, School Bus

Provided, Prince William County Government:

​It’s only a short time until school starts up again, and Prince William County Crossing Guards want people to slow down and pay attention to the children that will be waiting at school bus stops and walking and biking to school.

Lt. Marie Snyder, Prince William County Police Crossing Guard Bureau, said children lack the skills to safely negotiate traffic on their own and can often surprise drivers with out-of-the-blue behavior. “What motorists really need to be aware of is that children are very unpredictable. They can step out in the road, and children don’t judge speed very well. They’re not sure if the vehicle is coming quickly or slowly. They don’t have that judgment yet. You really have to be on your toes. If there’s a child, be ready for something you don’t expect.”

Drivers should also be ready to meet school buses in the mornings and afternoons and be prepared to obey the signs. “The most important thing motorists can remember is that when the red lights come on, you need to stop. Never, ever pass a school bus with the stop signs out and the red lights on.”