With a New School Year Approaching, OSHP Stresses Bus and School Zone Safety

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- As school supply lists are fulfilled, first day outfits picked out, and backpacks ready to go, school districts across Southeast Ohio are preparing to go back to school in the next few weeks. 

With the new school year approaching it’s time to start preparing your morning and afternoon commutes for the addition of school buses, students, and school zones.

“School buses are going to be out on the road soon. Kids are going to be going back to school, and troopers are just reminding everyone just to make sure that you prepare for this chance. Make sure you’re giving yourself enough time and giving them that space to operate safely,” Trooper Nihiser with the Ohio State Highway Patrol stated.

According to the Ohio State Highway patrol, between 2016 and 2020, there were more than 5,000 traffic incidents involving school buses, with 1,923 people being injured and 8 people killed in Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol stresses the importance of respecting school buses and school zones. It’s the law in Ohio to stop 10’ or more behind or infront of school buses to allow passengers to safely load and unload, and follow posted school zone speed limits. More often than not, the speed limit in school zones is 20mph.

“When signs are flashing or the sign is displayed, make sure you’re going that speed limit. So that if there are kids walking, or there are buses loading or unloading you’re being safe around them,” Trooper Nihsier said.

In addition to all the school bus safety and school zone precautions, the Ohio State Highway Patrol wants to remind everyone to drive the speed limit, wear your seatbelt, drive sober, and drive distraction free.