8.8.24 – BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)
With the new school year starting up around the Baton Rouge area, Louisiana State Police are encouraging residents to drive safely in school zones, near school buses and when transporting children.
“All motorists must remain vigilant and adhere to the rules of the road to safeguard the well-being of drivers and our young students,” said LSP in a news release.
When driving in school zones, drivers should be aware of crossing guards and follow the posted speed limits. According to LSP, during drop-off and pick-up times, drivers should be ready for instant stops and increased pedestrian and car traffic.
Drivers should also be aware of abiding by posted Hands-Free Zones in school zones. According to LSP, these zones forbid all drivers from using their cell phones to make calls, send texts, or access social media platforms. Drivers are encouraged to stay focused while making their way through school zones.
When drivers are proceeding toward a school bus with red flashing lights, they must come to a complete stop at least 30 feet away from the bus, according to LSP. LSP states, “Drivers must remain stopped until the bus stop arm is retracted and the bus resumes motion.”When is the first day of class for schools around Baton Rouge?
According to LSP, extra caution is advised when you are around school buses, as a child could suddenly enter the roadway.
For drivers who are taking their children to school, who are under the age of 13, it is required by Louisiana law for them to ride in the back seat of the car when possible.
“For younger children, it is recommended that they remain rear-facing until the age of two or until they have outgrown the weight or height limits of their car seat,” said LSP in a news release.
As for older children who can face forward, they should use the interior harness up to its limit, which is 65 pounds on most seats, according to LSP. Click here to learn more about car seat laws and fitting station locations.