RICHMOND, Va. — Police departments across Central Virginia are reminding motorists to use extra caution while traveling as students head back to class Tuesday.
“School safety is always a priority,” said Richmond Police Chief Alfred Durham. “As school begins, we will have officers driving by schools and bus stops as well as visiting school buildings to make their presence know, interact with the youth and help facilitate a safe learning environment for the students.”
The department is reminding drivers to pay close attention, particularly in school zones and in residential areas near bus stops.
Henrico Police echoed those sentiments saying drivers can expect to see an increased police presence on roads starting on the first day of school.
“Officers will be enforcing all applicable laws to include speeding, seatbelt enforcement, and school bus signal violations, with special attention to traffic on roads surrounding Henrico County Schools,” the department wrote in a press release.
In addition, Henrico Officers will conduct high visibility enforcement in school zones across the county over the next several weeks.
Henrico Police offered these general safety guidelines:
- Please slow down. All school zones are posted with reduced speed limits during the morning and afternoon hours.
- Follow at a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Watch for students and pedestrians as they walk to school or bus stops.
- Watch for School Crossing Guards as they assist children crossing the street.
- Buckle up not only yourself, but also your child. Remember: “Click It or Ticket!”
- Be alert to school buses stopping to load or unload children. Motorists observed passing a stopped school bus will be charged with reckless driving.
Henrico Police are also reminding drivers to plan ahead as there may be traffic delays when school begins Tuesday.
“Drivers should plan accordingly by giving themselves a few extra minutes on their daily commutes,” they wrote.
