SJPD Reminds all to Stay Aware and Stay Safe in School Zones

It’s Back to School! The San José Police Department Encourages the Public to Stay Aware and Stay Safe in School Zones

As students head back to the classroom, there will be an increase in traffic around schools and the surrounding communities.

The San José Police Department reminds everyone to be patient, plan ahead and stay safe. There are going to be more parents, students and staff outside than residents have seen during the summer,” said San José Police Lieutenant Scherry. “Please drive carefully in school zones, especially during pick-up and drop-off times.”

This includes remembering what to do around school buses.

“The safest thing to do is to stop the car when you encounter a school bus with a stop sign and flashing red lights,” said Lieutenant Scherry. “Be mindful of students getting on and off the school bus.”

California law requires drivers to stop when a school bus is in front of them and extends its stop sign with flashing red lights. Drivers must remain stopped if the red lights are on. Drivers in both directions must stop on any two-lane road without a median or a center turn lane.

The San José Police Department offers the following tips to stay safe around schools:

• Slow down.
• Follow any school rules for dropping off or picking up students.
• Stop for school buses. Watch for children rushing to catch the bus or exiting.
• Whenever possible, avoid blocking the crosswalk while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
• Always look both ways before crossing the street. Make sure cars see you.
• Walk on sidewalks, when available. Cross at marked crosswalks, preferably at stop signs or signals.
• Watch for cars entering or backing out of driveways or leaving parking spaces.