Road rules for a safe school year

Published on August 04, 2025

As kids head back to school, it's a great time to brush up on traffic safety. Check out these tips for students walking or biking to school and for drivers traveling near school zones. Here are some safety reminders to discuss with your kids who may be walking or riding a bike to school.

For walkers

• Use the sidewalk if one is available. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
• Look both ways before crossing any street.
• Cross the street using crosswalks or intersections.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to ensure they see you.

For bicyclists

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet.
• If riding in the street, ride on the right side of the road, with traffic, in a single file.
• Stop and look both ways before crossing any street. Walk your bicycle when crossing the street.

For walkers and bikers

• There is always safety in numbers. Encourage your children to stay with others as they make their way to and from school, rather than going alone.

For drivers

• Stay alert when driving through school zones. Slow down and watch for children crossing.
• Avoid distractions inside the vehicle such as your cellphone or the radio.
• Never drive around a school bus that has its stop sign extended. This includes traffic in both directions.