Rules of the Road for the New School Year

Safety tips for walkers, bicycle riders, drivers, and Families.

School is back in session, and traffic patterns have changed almost overnight. School buses are out and about, children are walking or riding bicycles to school, and parents and teen drivers fill parking lots and drop-off lanes. Here are some important reminders as we share the roads with our students.

Slow Down in School Zones

School zones require extra caution because traffic is heavier and children can be unpredictable. Always obey posted speed limits and watch carefully for crossing guards. Be prepared to stop for students entering or leaving crosswalks.

Avoid distractions such as texting, adjusting your GPS, or eating while driving. A moment of inattention can have lifelong consequences.

Know Illinois School Bus Laws

One of the most important back-to-school safety rules involves “stopped” school buses.

In Illinois:

• Drivers must stop when approaching a school bus from either direction if the bus has its red flashing lights activated and the stop arm extended.
• Drivers who are stopped for a school bus should not continue until the bus begins moving again, the bus driver signals you to proceed, or the flashing lights stop.
• Always check for children crossing or along the roadside wherever a bus is stopped. Proceed with caution through these areas.

Passing a stopped school bus illegally puts children at risk and can result in significant fines and suspension of driving privileges.

Share the Road Safely

School buses make frequent stops and need extra room to maneuver. Leave plenty of following and stopping distance between your vehicle and the bus. Never attempt to pass a bus unless it is legal and safe to do so.

Walking Safety for Students

Walking to school is a healthy way to begin the day. Make sure your student is also safe by teaching them the following basic safety habits:

• Walk on sidewalks whenever available.
• Cross only at marked crosswalks or intersections.
• Look left, right, and left again before crossing.
• Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the street.
• Avoid using phones or wearing headphones while crossing roads.

Parents should practice walking routes with younger children before the school year begins. Be sure your students use good safety habits, are familiar with safe crossings, and know how to avoid potential hazards.

Bicycle Safety for Students

Riding a bicycle to school comes with important safety responsibilities. Before the school year begins, parents should ensure bicycles are in good working order by checking the brakes, tires, and chain. A properly fitted helmet should be worn on every ride.

Students should ride in the same direction as traffic, obey all traffic signs and signals, and use bike lanes whenever they are available. Bright or reflective clothing can also make bicyclists easier for drivers to see, especially on cloudy mornings or during the shorter days of fall.

Parents are encouraged to practice the route to school with younger children before the first day of classes. Choosing the safest route, even if it takes a few extra minutes, can make a significant difference.

Important Reminders for Teen Drivers

For many teenagers, back-to-school season means driving to school with friends. Give your full attention to your driving and be extra careful in areas around the school or wherever children are present. Good driving habits developed now can last a lifetime.

Every Trip Matters

Whether your child rides the bus, walks, bicycles, or drives to school, every student deserves to arrive safely. By slowing down, staying alert, and following the rules of the road, we can all help make the new school year a safe one for our students and our communities.

The Moultrie County Health Department sends our best to parents, students, and school staff for an amazing new school year!