What should you do when approaching a school zone?

When approaching a school zone, it is essential to reduce speed and watch for children. School zones are areas where children are likely to be present, especially during school arrival and dismissal times. Reducing your speed enhances your ability to respond to unexpected situations, such as a child suddenly crossing the street or darting out from between parked cars.

Additionally, being vigilant for children is crucial, as they may not always be aware of traffic rules or might not be visible until you are very close. This practice helps ensure the safety of the children and the drivers themselves. School zones often have specific speed limits that are lower than regular traffic limits, reinforcing the importance of caution and awareness in these areas.

Maintaining your current speed or increasing speed while approaching a school zone poses a risk not only to the children but could also result in penalties for disregarding speed regulations. Avoiding the area altogether is not a practical solution, as children and traffic are often present in school zones, making it important for drivers to navigate these zones safely.