School buses, more young pedestrians and bicyclists, and crossing guards in active school zones are among changes motorists will encounter as a new school year begins.
The Missouri Highway Patrol has issued a reminder urging drivers to "Watch For Students!"
The reminder focuses on changes in traffic patterns that merit attention, including the return of school buses transporting students.
Last year, one person was killed and 376 people were injured in crashes involving school buses. And those crashes weren't rare; 960 crashes involving school buses were reported last year.
On two-lane roads, Missouri law requires motorists must stop when meeting or following a school bus that is stopped and displaying warning signals while loading or discharging youngsters. On four-lane highways, only motorists following the bus must stop.
All drivers, however, are urged to be alert and to watch for children who may dart unexpectedly into the roadway after leaving the bus.
The patrol also cautioned that most accidents involving drivers under age 21 occur between 3-4 p.m., when the school day typically ends.
According to the patrol, "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."
Missouri adheres to an ill-advised law that prohibits texting while driving only for motorists under age 22. We call it inadequate because we believe the ban should apply to all drivers, regardless of age.
Distracted driving is a universal danger that invites accidents, which injure and kill people young and old, in vehicles, on bicycles and walking on sidewalks.
Similarly, safety is a responsibility shared by everyone - young and old, in vehicles, on bicycles and walking.
As a new school year begins, let's all do our part.