Some Butler County students head back to class this week.
State police are taking the time to remind drivers to be extra cautious– and patient– as with a new school year comes increased traffic.
“School buses, teachers, school employees, and students in personal cars will take to the roads, creating more traffic than we have seen since school ended in late May or early June,” according to Captain Steve Ignatz, commanding officer for Pennsylvania State Police Troop D. “We should all expect it to take a few minutes longer to get where we are going once school starts.”
Parents of students who drive to school are encouraged to review roadway safety and the specific routes to and from school that their student will be taking.
“Show them where there may be traffic delays when they are going to school or coming home. Teach them the importance of driving within the speed limit and obeying all the rules of the road,” Ignatz said. “Please make sure the young driver is not too tired; demand the student keeps the music turned down, and does not use their phone or text while driving.”
State police said everyone is reminded to properly wear seat belts and make sure their vehicles are safe and fit to be on the roads.
“The start of school is an exciting time…we don’t want the new year to be marred by car crashes,” he said.