Summer vacation is winding down, and parents are gathering supplies and preparing to send their children back to the classroom for another productive year. Very soon, our communities and our morning commutes will be buzzing with buses filled with children on their way to and from school. It’s an exciting time, but it’s also an opportunity for all of us to think about safety. Below are some tips and reminders that can help ensure a safe and happy back-to-school season.

New York State has strong laws in place to protect our children, including an important one that prohibits the passing of stopped school buses. When you see a school bus on the road with flashing warning lights – in your lane or that of the opposing traffic – you must stop. It’s best to stop your vehicle at least 20 feet away, so kids can exit and cross the street safely.

Unfortunately, many motorists ignore these guidelines and still pass school buses, and the consequences can be dire. In 2004, a 7-year-old girl from Munnsville in Madison County tragically lost her life after a car illegally passed her school bus on the right side.¹ It’s absolutely necessary that we take steps to ensure no other family suffers the same loss. That’s why I voted to pass legislation in the Assembly this year to raise awareness of the dangers of illegal passing (A.458). The bill would use funds collected from offenders and reinvest them in a public education program to promote safer school bus practices, helping our kids stay out of harm’s way.

We all need to remember to drive extra carefully this time of year, not just because of buses but because of all the students walking to and from school, as well.

New York State also has special laws in place to protect our children, including reduced speed limits and increased fines in school zones where kids are likely to be walking or playing. During the summer months, it can be easy to forget to slow down in these areas. However, once school is back in session, speed limits as low as 15 miles per hour will be strictly enforced. Always do your best to be aware of your surroundings and follow posted guidelines – it may seem like an inconvenience, but adhering to these laws is one of the simplest ways we can help keep our children safe all year long.

For children who live close enough, walking to school can be extremely beneficial, encouraging exercise and providing an opportunity for parents and kids to enjoy a healthy activity together. However, these children should also take proper precautions. If possible, stick to the sidewalks. In places where there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far away from the driving lane as the shoulder will allow. Always use available crosswalks, look both ways before crossing the street and be alert in busy school parking lots. And, if your child walks alone, remind them never to talk to or accept rides from strangers.

I hope you find these tips helpful, and I encourage you to sit down with your children to discuss other ways to stay safe during the upcoming school year. For more valuable information, you can visit the National Safety Council’s website (nsc.org/act/events/Pages/keep-children-safe-at-school.aspx). And, as always, my door is open. Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 452-1115.

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