NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Capt. Christian T. Ricks

Q08056 (573) 526-6115





August 17, 2005

EMPHASIS: Back To School



The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds drivers that schools will begin soon, and young people will be on the move -- walking, biking, and driving to school. It is critical for drivers to be alert, especially near school zones, playgrounds, and bicycle paths. It is important for parents to emphasize safety to their children. Teach them to pay attention to vehicles and their drivers.



Afternoons can be especially dangerous. Most traffic crashes involving young drivers (under the age of 21) in 2004 occurred between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., when school typically lets out. Drivers need to be aware of the increased traffic during this time--not just in areas around school, but all around town. Remember: Many of these drivers are inexperienced.



School buses will also play a role in increasing traffic before and after school. Missouri law states 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. Any time drivers see a stopped school bus, they should be alert. Children may not be aware of traffic and dart unexpectedly into the roadway.



"Last year, Missouri experienced 1,318 traffic crashes involving school buses. In those crashes 773 drivers and passengers of the school buses were injured,” said Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent of the Patrol. “All of us are responsible for keeping children safe. I encourage drivers to stay alert at all times, but especially in areas where schoolchildren are traveling to and from Missouri's schools."