As students return to school on Monday, Aug. 9, the Knoxville Police Department and Knox County Sheriff’s Office will implement enhanced enforcement of school-zone traffic laws for several days. Officers will be patrolling school zones during drop-off and dismissal to prevent speeding, reckless driving and distracted driving, and to look out for drivers who fail to stop for school buses.
“Traffic safety around our school buildings is an essential part of protecting our students and employees,” said Jason Periard, chief of the KCS Security Division. “I am grateful for the work of our law enforcement partners to make sure that motorists are driving safely and obeying all applicable traffic laws.”
In addition to lower speed limits in school zones, motorists should be aware of laws regarding school buses that are loading or unloading students. A diagram from the Knoxville Police Department that clarifies when vehicles must stop is available here.
“It’s important to know the rules of the road when it comes to bus safety,” said KPD Chief Eve Thomas. “Make sure to look out for buses that are picking up or dropping off students, and remember that students may not be paying attention to their surroundings.”
As the new year begins, motorists should also remember that school zone speed limits are back in effect. “School traffic laws are designed to protect our children,” said Sheriff Tom Spangler. “As a new school year begins, I would ask all drivers to slow down in school zones. The extra time it takes to drive safely is a small price to pay for the safety and well-being of our children.”
Josh Flory is a multi-media specialist with Knox County Schools and writes the blog Hall Pass for the KCS website.