As Southern California students settle into the new school year, state traffic safety officials Monday were urging motorists to slow down and remain alert around schools while announcing increased enforcement and a campaign aimed at protecting children walking and biking to campus.
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) launched its “ABCs for School Zone Safety” campaign, reminding motorists to be “Alert for Bicyclists and Children crossing” as traffic increases around schools.
“As students head back to school, we want every trip to be a safe one,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said in a statement. “The `ABCs for School Zone Safety’ campaign highlights driving basics that protect children on their daily routes. Remember your ABCs on every trip — stay alert for bicyclists and watch for and yield to children crossing the street.”
The campaign will run through the end of August, with English- and Spanish-language digital and audio messages reminding motorists to obey school-zone speed limits, watch for children walking and biking and stop for school buses.
The California Highway Patrol will also increase enforcement operations in school zones statewide, targeting speeding, failure to yield and other unsafe driving behaviors, according to OTS.
CHP officers will also conduct school bus enforcement operations targeting motorists who fail to stop for buses displaying flashing red lights.
Last October, OTS said it provided more than $1 million to the CHP to expand pedestrian safety enforcement, particularly in school zones and near bus stops.
State officials reminded motorists to allow additional travel time around schools, avoid distractions and reduce speeds when children are present. With limited exceptions, California law requires motorists traveling in both directions to stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights and remain stopped until the lights are turned off.
E-bike safety is also a concern among younger riders. State data show children 14 and younger recorded the highest number of e-bike injuries among age groups in California from 2018 through 2024, according to OTS.
Federal data show 1,253 pedestrians and bicyclists were killed on California roads in 2024, accounting for 32% of all traffic deaths in the state.
Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy urged motorists to exercise additional caution near campuses.
“Everyone can do their part to keep our young people safe by slowing down in school zones and driving with extra caution where children are present,” El-Tawansy said. “These conscientious driving habits protect students on foot and those on bikes, helping them arrive to class and return home safely.”
California announced last month that nearly $2.5 billion is being invested in more than 150 transportation projects statewide intended to improve connections for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users.
It’s crucial for drivers to be extra vigilant as school resumes. The reminder to be “Alert for Bicyclists and Children crossing” is so important during this busy time of year. this one
It’s so important that the California Office of Traffic Safety is launching this campaign as students head back to school. Increased enforcement and reminders for drivers to slow down and stay alert can make a real difference in keeping our kids safe. Let’s all do our part to protect those walking and biking to school! recommended
It’s wonderful to see the California Office of Traffic Safety prioritizing student safety as they return to school. The “ABCs for School Zone Safety” campaign is a timely reminder for all of us to stay alert while driving in these busy areas. Let’s all commit to watching out for bicyclists and children crossing the streets, as their safety depends on our awareness. useful tool
It’s great to see the California Office of Traffic Safety prioritizing our children’s safety as they head back to school. The focus on increased enforcement around school zones and reminding drivers to remain attentive is so necessary. We all need to remember that these small actions can create a much safer environment for students commuting to school. relevant link
The “ABCs for School Zone Safety” campaign is a timely reminder for all of us as school resumes. With the increase in traffic around schools, it’s vital for drivers to be more cautious. Keeping an eye out for children and cyclists can truly help prevent accidents and ensure a safer environment for everyone. Let’s stay alert and make this school year safe for our kids! useful tool
It’s heartening to see the California Office of Traffic Safety taking proactive steps with the “ABCs for School Zone Safety” campaign. Reminding drivers to be alert for bicyclists and children is vital, especially as traffic ramps up around schools. Let’s hope everyone takes these messages seriously to ensure our kids can get to school safely! worth a look