As the 2016-2017 school year begins this week for most schools in our area, local police are reminding motorists to drive with extra caution when approaching and entering a school zone, when entering onto school property, or when approaching a school bus actively involved in either receiving or discharging children.
- Motorists:
Be aware of children walking to and from bus stops, as they might not be paying attention and dart into the road.
Be aware of school zone signage and reduce speed in school zones.
Be patient and wait for children to complete their crossing before proceeding. Remember the law now requires motorists to stop and remain stopped for pedestrians in crosswalks.
DO NOT text while driving.
- Students:
Always stop, look and listen before crossing.
Always cross at the crosswalk and obey all traffic lights and crossing guard instructions.
Try to arrive at the bus stop early so you are never rushing to catch the bus. Always wait at least six feet from the curb and don’t approach the bus until it comes to a complete stop.Additional tips for school zone safety can be found at: www.nj.gov/oag/hts/downloads/School_Zone_Tip_Sheet.pdf
Hackettstown police would like to remind motorists of the 20 mph school zones on the following streets: Washington Street between Warren and Church streets; Madison Street between Church and Warren streets; Warren Street between Washington and the Hackettstown High School driveway, and Fifth Avenue from Reese to Grand avenues. The 20 mph is in effect Monday through Friday when school is in session, during the hours of 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. – 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Motorists are also reminded to use caution around schools, even after the school day ends when children leave later due to extracurricular activities and sporting events.
For more Northwest Jersey’s news, tune into 92.7FM, 104.7FM, 1510AM, wrnj.com or on the TuneIn app.
By: Jay Edwards
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