Louisiana – As the new school year approaches, the Louisiana State Police is reminding motorists and caregivers of the importance of safety in school zones. With the increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic, it is crucial to remain vigilant and adhere to the rules of the road to safeguard the well-being of drivers and students.
School Zone Safety
In Louisiana, crossing guards have the authority to control traffic flow at intersections to ensure students’ safety. Motorists must be aware of these guards and adhere to the posted speed limits within designated school zones. During drop-off and pick-up times, drivers should be prepared for sudden stops and increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Additionally, respecting and complying with posted Hands-Free Zones within school zones is crucial. These areas prohibit all drivers, regardless of age, from using a cell phone to make calls, send texts, or access social media platforms.
School Bus Safety
When approaching a school bus with flashing red lights, all traffic must come to a complete stop at least 30 feet away from the bus, regardless of the direction from which you are coming. Drivers must remain stopped until the bus stop arm is retracted and the bus resumes motion. Extra caution should be exercised around school buses, as children may unexpectedly enter the roadway. A good rule of thumb is to always stop unless you are on a four-lane road with a physical barrier, a raised median, or a continuous turn lane.
Car Seat Safety
Louisiana law requires children under 13 to ride in the back seat of a vehicle whenever possible. For younger children, it is recommended that they remain rear-facing until the age of two or until they have outgrown the weight or height limits of their car seat. Older children who can face forward should use the internal harness up to its maximum limit, typically 65 pounds on most seats. If caregivers are uncertain about the proper installation of their child’s car seat, they are encouraged to reach out to their local State Police troop office to seek guidance from a certified child passenger safety technician, a service provided free of charge.
Prioritizing Safety
The goal is to bring communities together to ensure the safety of our children, whether they are commuting to and from school, attending after-school activities, or accompanying us to work. As drivers, we must remain vigilant and always prioritize safety. The well-being of our future generations relies on our commitment to safe driving practices.
Resources
For more information on car seat laws and fitting station locations, please visit the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission at https://tinyurl.com/2sc9erds.