As a new school year begins, state transportation officials remind drivers that cellphone use is prohibited within school zones, and that failing to stop for a school bus carries a hefty fine.
Drivers must stop for flashing red lights or a stop sign on a school bus, regardless of their direction of travel. Violations can lead to a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense.
Statewide, seven people were killed and 51 seriously injured last year in crashes involving school buses. Driver inattention and speed were top factors in those crashes, TxDOT officials said.
Children walking to school are instructed to use sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the street, facing traffic, and cross only at intersections or marked crosswalks.
