Summer is over and the kids are back at school. We are sharing the roads with school buses again. These buses carry our students to and from school in a safe and timely fashion. Let’s do our part by making an effort to share the road safely.

Keep some simple safety tips in mind.
• When a school bus stops and the red lights are flashing, traffic in both directions must stop. This rule even applies on a divided highway or school parking lot.

• Students should always cross the street in front of the bus. Pay careful attention for this. Bus drivers will as well.

• Lights will continue to flash until the student has reached the other side of the road or if staying on the same side, is 15 feet from the bus.
This is not just a courtesy, it’s the law. New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (Section 1174) states that an illegal passing penalty for first time offenders carries a fine of between $250-$400, plus 5 points on your license and even the possibility of jail time. Points on your license can make it difficult to obtain new automobile insurance coverage or may increase the rate on your current policy.
We often drive to and from in a hurry to get to our destination. Make some extra time to practice safety.

Some areas of Long Island have installed School Zone Speed Cameras. These cameras were tested over the summer and warnings were issued. These cameras became activated on the first day of school and the violation now carries an $80 fine. Observe and Obey the speed limits in school zones.

Now you have the facts. Make this a safe and happy school year from your friends at C.H. Edwards, Inc. We offer all the insurance your family needs. Give us a call!

Written by: Denise Visco