Gila Herald Staff Reports
ARIZONA – As local schools resume their regular schedules, drivers across the region are urged to exercise extra caution and strictly obey posted speed limits in designated school zones.
School crossings and drop-off zones present unique traffic challenges. Young children are often distracted, unpredictable, and may step into the roadway without looking for oncoming traffic. Reduced speed limits—typically 15 to 20 mph in active school zones—are specifically designed to give drivers the critical time and stopping distance needed to react to sudden movements.
Key Reasons to Slow Down in School Zones:
- Increased Reaction Time: Driving at lower speeds drastically reduces a vehicle’s stopping distance. A car traveling at 15 mph can stop in a fraction of the distance required by a car moving at 35 mph, making the difference between a near-miss and a severe collision.
- Reduced Severity of Impact: Pedestrian survival rates increase dramatically at lower speeds. Studies consistently show that a pedestrian struck by a vehicle traveling at 20 mph has a significantly higher chance of surviving with minor injuries compared to one struck at higher speeds.
- Protecting Vulnerable Students: Younger children have not yet fully developed spatial awareness or the ability to accurately judge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles. It is up to drivers to maintain alertness on their behalf.
- Supporting School Staff and Crossing Guards: Crossing guards and school district maintenance personnel work in the middle of busy roadways every morning and afternoon to set up signs and guide students safely. Adhering to speed limits ensures their safety as well.
Safe Driving Habits for Drivers
To help protect local students, drivers should remember to:
- Watch for Flashing Lights and Signs: Pay attention to posted school zone signs, flashing beacons, and temporary crossing markers placed in the center of the roadway during school hours.
- Put Away Distractions: Put down cell phones and avoid multitasking while driving through school areas.
- Yield to Crossing Guards: Always obey the signals of school crossing guards and wait until all pedestrians have completely cleared the roadway before proceeding.
- Never Pass a Stopped School Bus: It is illegal and extremely dangerous to pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
Taking a few extra seconds to slow down through a school zone protects our community’s youth and ensures every student arrives at school and back home safely.
