Font ResizeLAS CRUCES - With area public schools beginning their spring semester Wednesday, the Las Cruces Police Department is reminding motorists to be on the lookout for more young pedestrians and bicyclists, and to be particularly cautious when traveling through school zones and near bus stops.
Drivers should:
•Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits.
•Stop for school busses that are loading or unloading children.
•Watch for and obey signals from school crossing guards.
•Be alert and watch for children near schools, bus stops and in school parking lots.
•Watch for school zone signals and obey the 15 mph speed limit.
•Do not pass other vehicles in school zones or at crosswalks as stopped vehicles may be allowing children to cross the road.
•Do not change lanes in school zones.
•Do not make U-turns in school zones.
•Do not text or otherwise use a cell phone unless it is completely hands-free.
•Unless licensed to do so, do not use handicap or emergency vehicle lanes or spaces to drop off or pick up children at school.
In addition, parents of younger students who ride school buses should consider escorting their children to and from their bus stop. Children should not stand or play in the roadway while waiting for, or leaving, a school bus and students who ride the bus should follow all safety rules and avoid distracting the driver. Students who walk should do so in a group and follow
Students who ride bikes should wear a helmet and follow all safety rules for bicyclists, including walking - not riding - their bikes across streets in designated crosswalks.
Students who drive to school should avoid speeding, never overload a vehicle, make sure everyone buckles up and minimize distractions from cell phone usage, eating, loud music or disruptive passengers.
Finally, students should always act as a good role model for younger siblings and fellow students and avoid horseplay on sidewalks, while riding a bus or bicycle, and while traveling in a vehicle.
