Police: Help Us Keep Bus Stops Safe

The Jefferson Township  Police Department released the following information regarding bus stops for the new school year, which starts on Wednesday:

As the new school year is upon us, the Jefferson Township Police Department is asking its residents and particularly parents of school age children to assist in a problem that has developed, particularly at bus stops.

Over the years, it appears that more than ever before parents have been driving their children to the bus stop instead of walking them. Some bus stops have in excess of 10 vehicles parked at some stops.

The numerous vehicles are causing concerns for traffic and pedestrian safety, particularly at busy intersections.

The Police Department is urging parents to assist by walking their children to the stop when possible.

Numerous complaints have been made to the police department and we are asking parents to adhere to the following motor vehicle parking laws:

39:4-135 – Vehicle must park on the right side of the roadway
39:4-138a – No parking within an intersection
39:4-138b – No parking within a crosswalk
39:4-138c – No parking in front of a public or private drive
39:4-138d – No parking within 25 feet of an intersection
39:4-138h – No parking within 50 feet of a stop sign
39:4-138m – No double parking

 In addition, the police will have increased patrols in mark and unmarked patrol cars to enforce motor vehicle laws and specifically motorists who pass school buses.    

To help protect children, AAA urges motorists to follow these safety tips:

• Slow down in and near school and residential areas.
• Drive with your headlights on — even during the day — so children and other drivers can see you.
• Look for clues that indicate children may be in the area such as school safety patrollers, bicycles and playgrounds.
• Scan between parked cars and other objects where children could dart into the road.
• Since school children travel the roadways on a regular schedule, adjust your routine by five or ten minutes to avoid busy pedestrian zones and frequent bus stops.
• Practice extra caution in bad weather.
• Always stop for school buses that are loading or unloading students. Vehicles must stop in all directions while the bus has its red lights activated; this includes intersections 
  Residents can contact Traffic Safety Officer Steve Muller at 973-208-6159 with questions or concerns.