August is the beginning of the new school year for many students. This means an increase in the number of pedestrians crossing streets as children walk to and from school or wait for school buses.
United States Postal Service® (USPS®) drivers must take extra precautions, especially in rural settings to keep children safe by staying alert and driving defensively.
Children don’t always recognize the dangers of distracted walking caused by texting or talking on the phone. They take risks, ignore hazards, and fail to look both ways when crossing the street, walking, or riding their bikes. Here are some precautions to take when driving through residential areas, especially near schools:
n Slow down and obey the speed limit.
n Adjust your mirrors so that you can see around your vehicle.
n Avoid backing up your vehicle.
n Avoid distracted driving.
A school zone sign with a flashing yellow light indicates you must reduce your speed to the speed limit posted on the sign. When you see a school zone sign, do not pass or change lanes, and obey the posted speed limit throughout the school zone. Always stay alert and cautious.
As with school zones, drivers must also be alert and slow down when near a school bus. A bus with flashing red lights and a stop sign extended means children are getting on or off the bus. Vehicles from both directions must stop at least 10 feet away to allow enough space for children to safely enter and exit the bus. Drivers must remain stopped until:
n The red lights stop flashing;
n The stop sign has been drawn back;
n The driver waves you on; and
n The bus begins to move.
Failure to stop for a school bus with the stop indicators engaged can result in hefty fines. In many states, school buses are also required to stop at railroad crossings. You are breaking the law if you pass a school bus stopped at a railroad crossing.
USPS takes safe driving seriously. Whether you are on or off the clock, be alert and aware of your surroundings to help keep children safe.
— Occupational Safety and Health,
Human Resources, 8-24-23
