Cops Urge Drivers to Cruise Carefully Monday: Downers Grove Schools Resume

It's that time of year again! Downers Grove schoolchildren officially head back to class on Monday, Aug. 29 and local law enforcement officials are reminding drivers to be mindful.

Class is now in session for Downers Grove Grade School District 58 and Community High School District 99. Residents should expect patrol and traffic officer to be, "out in force in neighborhoods and (near) schools making sure motorists obey traffic laws."

"Please remember to reduce your speed in school zones, obey all traffic laws with regard to buses and crosswalks, and avoid distracted driving," they said. "Let's help our kids have a safe and successful start to the 2016-17 school year!"

The Downers Grove Police Department works closely with the First Student Bus Company to ensure that motorists in the community know the laws pertaining to school buses. As part of the partnership, bus drivers report any stop-arm violations to the police department for appropriate action.

Drivers should be aware that the following laws are in place for the safety of the children walking to and from school each day:

• On any two-lane roadway and within school parking lots, all traffic must stop when the school bus has its "STOP" arm extended. On a four-lane roadway, only vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus are required to stop. The penalty for passing a stopped school bus is a $150.00 fine and a 90-day suspension of driving privileges.
• The speed limit in areas posted as "School Zones" is 20 mph on school days from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, when children are present in the area. The minimum fine for this traffic offense is $150.
• Always BUCKLE-UP everyone on every trip, every time. Seat belts are the best defense against driver mistakes - they save lives every day!
• When driving near schools, be alert for adult school crossing guards and student patrols that may be assisting children crossing the street. Motorists are required to obey the instructions of adult school crossing guards, so use caution and be prepared to stop.
• Cell Phones are PROHIBITED in school zones for everyone! State statute prohibits the use of cellphones for all drivers, regardless of age, while operating a motor vehicle in a school zone.