AAA urging drivers to remain cautious as kids return to school

AAA Texas is urging drivers to be extra alert while in school zones as students head back to school.  AAA said that both distractions and speeding are putting children at risk.  According to recent data, there were 877 traffic crashes in school zones across the state in 2025, a 12% increase from the previous year.  An additional 2,358 crashes involved school buses.

Drivers are reminded to watch out for kids that may dart into the street or come out between parked cars.  AAA is also reminding parents to urge children to remove earbuds when they’re walking to school, make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street, and make sure their bike helmets are properly fitted.

It is recommended that drivers:

~Watch for flashing school-zone lights and obey reduced speed limits.

~Put phones away and avoid distractions while driving.

~Stop and yield to pedestrians and other vulnerable road users in crosswalks.

~Use designated school drop-off and pick-up areas.

~Watch for children gathering at bus stops or crossing between vehicles.

Other Back-to-School Safety Tips:

~Make sure your school has up-to-date emergency contact information, including phone numbers for parents, guardians and alternate contacts.

~Keep a current picture of your child throughout the school year on your mobile device.

~Talk to your child about what to do in case of emergencies, such as fire or tornado drills, as well as other lockdown drills.

~Remind your child to never talk to strangers or accept rides from anyone not previously approved by you.

~Familiarize yourself and your child with their school’s safety policies and procedures.

~Ensure your child knows which adults at school (teachers, counselors, etc.) they can go to if they need help.

~Continue to cultivate conversations throughout the school year on practicing smart school safety.

Drivers are required by law to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights, obey crossing guards, and have at least three feet when passing bicyclists.

As for preparing your teenagers for driving themselves to school, it is recommended parents drive the route with them ahead of time, so they can learn the signs, identify school-zone areas and see where traffic typically slows.  Texas law also restricts teen drivers.

For drivers ages 16 and 17 with a provisional license, cellphone use is banned while driving, including hands-free use, except in an emergency.  Drivers are generally prohibited from driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless it is for work, a school activity or an emergency.  They also cannot carry more than one passenger under 21 who is not a family member.

Drivers are also encouraged to review school-zone speed limits and watch for children during the first two weeks of school.