With the new school year nearing, or already in session, the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers to slow down and be alert in school safety zones.
In a press release, the Sheriff’s Office asked drivers to please watch for children in crosswalks.
Children under age 13 have limited depth perception and may be unable to judge the distance and time of an approaching vehicle.
Remember a child has an 80-90 percent rate of survival if struck by a car traveling 20 mph, as opposed to 90 percent chance of death if the car is traveling 25 or 30 mph.
Always obey crossing guards and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
The press release reminds drivers to watch for the new flashing beacon school zone signs and a law enforcement presence reminding them to stay under 20 mph. It is OK to drive slower, especially at dawn, dusk, and in bad weather.
School zones only protect children if all drivers are alert and follow the school zone rules. Traffic fines are doubled in school zones.
“Kids need to get to and from school safely,” the press release said. “Please do your part to help them stay safe!”
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