The new school year in Battle Ground begins Wednesday, September 4th. Because safety is of the highest priority, Battle Ground Police Department will be stepping up traffic enforcement around schools and urges motorists to be alert to traffic safety issues.
Roads near schools are typically congested during the morning and afternoon drop-off and pick-up hours. Officials urge motorists to watch for students walking or riding bikes along the street and crossing streets. Drivers are reminded to stop at all intersections controlled by stop signs and signal lights, and that people within the crosswalk have the right of way.
School buses will once again be travelling local roads. It is illegal to pass a school bus that has stopped to receive or discharge students. School bus drivers will use flashing yellow lights to alert motorists that they are going to stop. Red flashing lights and extended stop arm indicate that the bus has stopped and that children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop their cars and wait until the red flashing lights are turned off, the stop arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before they start driving again.
Please do your part by driving, walking or bicycling with your focus on safety. Here are a few ways you can help:
• Expect delays, especially in the first few weeks of school, and plan accordingly.
• Observe speed limits. The speed limit is 20 mph in school zones.
• Pay attention and watch for children on foot or on bicycles.
• Do not be distracted by using a cell phone while driving. Using a cell phone to talk or text while operating a motor vehicle is a traffic infraction and you will be ticketed.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
• Educate your children about walking and bicycle safety such as crossing within crosswalks, wearing bright clothing and bicycle riders wearing helmets and following the same rules of the road as motor vehicles.