The Missouri State Highway Patrol encourages parents and students to keep safety in mind when preparing for the 2022/2023 school year.

The school year brings about many changes in traffic patterns with school buses, children walking, and young drivers. According to a report from the MSHP, one person was killed and 217 injured in traffic crashes involving a school bus in 2021. In Missouri last year, 794 traffic crashes involved school buses. The patrol offers several tips for motorists, children, and parents for a safe school year.

For motorists:
-Always be vigilant, but especially near school zones, playgrounds, bicycle paths, and crosswalks when schools are in session.
-Expect pedestrian and bicycle traffic to increase near schools on days where the weather is good.
-When schools are in session, drivers should expect a change in traffic patterns ? school buses, parents taking their children to school, and many young drivers will join other motorists on the road and affect the morning and afternoon commute. Whatever route you drive, expect this additional traffic and prepare by allowing extra time to reach your destination.
-Missouri law states that on a two-lane road, if a school bus is stopped and displaying warning signals while loading or unloading children, drivers must stop when meeting and following the bus. However, it is only necessary to stop on a four-lane highway when following the bus. Drivers, when you see a stopped school bus, stay alert and follow the law. Children may not be aware of traffic and dart unexpectedly into the roadway.

For students:
-Students walking to school should stay alert. Cross the street at intersections or marked crosswalks and never between parked cars. Use sidewalks when they are available. If it is necessary to walk on the roadway, stay close to the left edge and step off to the left when traffic approaches. Never dash into the street after a friend or to retrieve something.
-Students riding bikes to school should be sure to wear a helmet and obey all traffic signs and signals. Ride as near to the right side of the roadway as is safe and use the proper hand signals when you plan to change directions, slow, or stop. Never carry passengers. Keep both hands on the handlebars except when signaling. It’s important to maintain your bicycle in good condition.
-Students riding a school bus should check the weather and dress accordingly. Wait in line for the bus on the shoulder or sidewalk. Use the handrail when getting on or off the bus. Never try to retrieve items that fall under the bus and walk at least 10 feet in front of the bus when crossing the street. Sit quietly on the bus and keep the aisle clear. If anything goes wrong, stay calm and follow the instructions of the bus driver.

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about riding a bus, walking, or driving to school in a safe manner. If they ride a bike, make sure they wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.