As students across Northern California return to classrooms, the California Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert, especially in school zones and neighborhoods where children are walking and biking.
“With summer winding down, safety needs to be top of mind,” CHP–Northern Division said in a Facebook post. The agency noted that its summer “100 Safest Days” campaign focused on reducing impaired and distracted driving, along with strict enforcement of speed limits.
The CHP is urging motorists to take extra care during the school year, highlighting several key reminders:
- School zones: Obey posted speed limits and be prepared to stop for children in crosswalks or near bus stops.
- Pedestrians: Yield the right of way and remain vigilant for children who may dart into the road unexpectedly.
- Intersections: Look both ways, double-check before proceeding, and never assume other drivers will stop.
- Distractions: Put phones away and keep attention fully on the road.
- Impairment: Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that can affect judgment and reaction time.
Traffic safety is a shared responsibility, the agency said, emphasizing that even small lapses in attention can have life-changing consequences.
“Let’s protect one another, look out for our kids, and make safety a habit every time we get behind the wheel,” the post said.
