Late Summer Driving: What You Need to Know 

With summer coming to an end, the back-to-school rush brings a noticeable increase in road activity. From school buses to parents dropping off their kids and student drivers navigating new routines, it's more important than ever to stay alert and prepared. Whether you're a seasoned driver or someone getting back into the swing of things, a few careful adjustments can make all the difference. Let's explore some practical ways to keep yourself—and everyone around you—safe during this busy season. 

1. Plan Your Routes Ahead of Time 

Before heading out, take the time to map your route. With heavier traffic during school hours, your usual drive may be slower, especially if it passes through school zones. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you anticipate delays and find alternate routes in real-time. If you need to pass through school-heavy areas, give yourself extra time to accommodate slower traffic.  

Pro Tip: It’s worth avoiding high-traffic zones around school campuses altogether if possible. By planning around these areas, you’ll save both time and stress. Reducing unexpected delays also means you're less tempted to rush, which keeps everyone safer.  

2. Adjust Your Schedule 

If possible, schedule your trips outside of peak school traffic hours. Mornings between 7 AM and 8 AM and afternoons between 2 PM and 4 PM are prime times for increased congestion and stops for buses. Leaving earlier or later can save you from the stress of stop-and-go traffic while allowing space on the road for school commuters.  

For parents: Setting up a morning routine with extra time for drop-offs can eliminate last-minute panic. A calm, unhurried start not only saves time but also sets a positive tone for the day ahead.  

3. Stay Patient and Alert 

Heavy traffic can test anyone’s patience, especially when you're in a rush. However, a calm mindset is crucial for safety. Remember, you're sharing the road with kids who may not always be aware of their surroundings. Distracted driving, speeding, or driving aggressively in these conditions can have serious consequences.  

• Stay focused: Keep your phone out of reach and avoid distractions while driving.  

• Watch for kids: Be mindful of young pedestrians and cyclists, especially near crossing zones.  

By practicing patience and prioritizing alertness, you're contributing to a safer environment—not just for yourself but also for schoolchildren and their families.  

4. Know the Rules of School Zones 

School zones come with specific requirements, and adhering to them is non-negotiable. When you see signs indicating a reduced speed limit, slow down immediately. Remember, school zone rules often apply during specific hours, so even if class isn't in session yet, the rule may still apply.  

Pay attention to crossing guards and always yield to pedestrians, no matter how busy you are. And don’t forget, it’s illegal to pass a school bus with flashing red lights, whether you're behind it or approaching from the opposite direction. Disobeying this law not only carries stiff penalties but also endangers lives.  

5. Practice Extra Caution Around Buses and Pedestrians 

When driving near school buses, exercise patience. Keep your distance so drivers and children have enough space to maneuver safely. If a bus stops and displays flashing red lights, come to a complete stop. Children may cross unexpectedly, and it's better to wait an extra moment than risk an accident.  

At crosswalks and intersections, reduce your speed and keep a close watch for pedestrians. Kids sometimes dart into the street without warning. By anticipating this, you’ll be ready to respond calmly and safely.  

6. Stay Flexible and Positive 

The back-to-school season can be overwhelming, but remember, it’s temporary. By adopting a flexible mindset, you can approach your drives with a cooler head. Leave stress behind and focus on shared road safety. We all have places to be, but approaching the situation with care and consideration goes a long way in ensuring everyone gets where they’re going safely.  

Wrapping Up  

The start of the school year is a busy time, but it also offers an opportunity to practice patience, kindness, and safety on the road. By planning ahead, staying vigilant, and taking extra precautions around school zones, you can make the roads safer for everyone.  

Let’s work together to create a stress-free driving environment during this seasonal rush. A little extra care behind the wheel can make a world of difference—not just for you, but for your community. Here's to a smooth and safe transition into the back-to-school season!