Huntley Police: Back to School Safe Driving Tips

Huntley police have been out conducting a back to school drive safely campaign on Haligus and Scott roads near the spot a Marlowe Middle School student was struck by a car last spring.

Deputy Chief Todd Fulton said officers were out this week passing fliers with information on safe driving.

Huntley police,  like law enforcement agencies throughout the country, are trying to get the message to drive cautiously as children head back to school. But the message should resonate even more for motorists using Haligus Road.

A 12-year-old student was struck as he tried to cross Haligus Road last spring. The boy, named Nick, suffered a fractured pelvis, fractured skull and cuts.

Huntley police are asking drivers to keep in mind:

• Motorist waving for children to cross the road is a dangerous habit. This practice has directly caused two separate accidents involving children being struck by a car. This may appear to be a helpful gesture but the consequences can be deadly.
• The school speed zone of 20 mph is in effectwhen children are present on school days from7 a.m. until 4 p.m.
• The state of Illinois law mandates that all motorists must stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk.
• Finally, cell phone usage in school zones, like construction zones, is unlawful.